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Sengoku Daimyo's Chronicles of Japan
The Jinshin no Ran Part IV: The Afumi Campaign

Sengoku Daimyo's Chronicles of Japan

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 16, 2025 47:16


The fourth and final episode in our series on the Jinshin no Ran: we cover the campaign in Afumi (aka Ōmi - 近江).  Prince Ōama and Prince Ōtomo (aka Kōbun Tennō), have drawn up their forces.  Last episode we covered the fighting in the Nara Basin, around the ancient Yamato capital: Asuka.  This episode focuses on the defense of the Karafu and Fuwa passes and the eventual march to the bridge at Setagawa. This is a name heavy episode, and we'll be noting some of it here: https://sengokudaimyo.com/podcast/episode-132   Rough Transcript Welcome to Sengoku Daimyo's Chronicles of Japan.  My name is Joshua and this is episode 132: The Jinshin no Ran, Part 4: The Afumi Campaign The Afumi soldiers on the western side of the bridge looked across the open expanse of water towards their Yoshino rivals on the eastern side.  If it weren't for the banners and the red tags barely visible on the sleeves of the opposing forces, it would be hard to know which side was which.  Both were equipped in similar ways, and a few of the soldiers could even make out familiar faces on the other side.  That is the nature of civil wars—especially in a conscript society, where the soldiers often had little choice which side they were fighting for.  Not that it necessarily mattered much to them which side came out on top, whatever their commanders might have told them. The bridge across the Seta river was large and wide, and normally quite well traveled.  Now, however, the central boards had been pulled up for a span of about 30 feet or so, leaving a gap spanned by only a single, narrow plank.  That plank was, itself, tied to a rope, which was being held by the Afumi troops.  The soldiers knew that should any of the enemy try to cross, they could pull the plank out from under them and they would fall into the river, their metal armor dragging them down into the dark depths of swirling water below.  Even should they somehow make it across without being peppered by arrows, there would be no reinforcements coming: they would be slaughtered, and the trap would be reset. It seemed like the Afumi forces held all the cards in this battle, and yet they were still tense. Archers could still shoot across the distance. The front rank of troops held wooden shields as a defense, but there were still openings in the formation and the armor, and in the chaos of battle, nobody was truly safe. And so the Afumi forces waited.  Confident, but wary. A commotion on the eastern side of the bridge grabbed the spotlight.  The Yoshino forces had approached, and they were clearly preparing for something.  The Afumi soldiers strained to see what was going on.  Suddenly, the front line of the Yoshino forces parted, and a strange sight confronted the Afumi soldiers.  It took them a moment to fully comprehend what was barreling towards them at full tilt: a soldier that looked almost like two soldiers put together, wearing armor placed over armor, in an attempt to protect from harm.  It must have been heavy, and as he stepped on the beam, it visibly buckled under the weight.  The Afumi archers let loose with their arrows and crossbow bolts, but to no avail.  They simply stuck in the armor, adding to the bizarre and otherworldly appearance of their opponent. The spell was broken on the Afumi side as arrows came cascading in.  The Yoshino forces weren't just sitting idly back, they were making sure they were doing everything they could to keep the Afumi forces distracted.  And for a split second it worked—and a split second was all they needed.  Before the soldiers could gather up their wits about them enough to pull the rope there was a terrifying sound of metal on wood.  The Afumi soldiers pulled the rope, but it came all too easy—the Yoshino soldier had dashed across and cut the rope tied to the plank.  Behind him, the Yoshino forces were now pouring across the bridge.  Soon they would establish a foothold, and behind the front line they would be able to have other soldiers place more planks so that the number of Yoshino soldiers on the Western side of the bridge only continued to increase. Realizing that their trap had been circumvented, the Afumi forces fell back, but their strategic withdrawal soon turned into a full on retreat.  While pockets of soldiers resisted, many were suddenly all too aware that perhaps it was better to live and fight another day, instead.  Despite threats and even attacks from their own commanders, the Afumi forces fled the battlefield, leaving the Yoshino army victorious.  With the Seta bridge now secured, there were no more major obstacles in their way:  They would march to the capital at Ohotsu and finish this war.   Welcome back!  This is Part 4, and so if you haven't already done so, I recommend going back and starting with Part 1.  That said, we'll briefly recap here. Over the past three episodes, we've talked about the causes of the war between Prince Ohotomo and Prince Ohoama as they vied for the throne.  Prince Ohotomo seemingly had the stronger position, as he was actually running the Yamato state from the Afumi capital in Ohotsu.  He had the various ministers and all the official organs of the state on his side.   He was also 23 years old. Ohoama, on the other side, was Ohotomo's paternal uncle.  His own son, Prince Takechi, was 19 years old and helping to lead the army.   Upon learning that the State was gathering forces against him, Ohoama had quickly moved east, gathering forces as he went, and now he stood near Fuwa, modern day Sekigahara, prepared to begin his march on the capital.   This episode we are going to cover the conclusion of the war.  Warning, though, this is going to be a *lot*.  A lot of place names and people names.  Apologies if it is hard to follow.  I'll have a rough map and info on the various players on the podcast blog, so you may want to bring that up if you are having problems following. In Part I of this series we covered the causes leading up to the conflict.  In Part II we covered Ohoama's mad dash to Fuwa, at modern Sekigahara.  Last episode, Part III we covered the fighting in the Nara Basin. This episode we are going to talk about the last two fronts of the war: the defense of the Iga area and Kurafu Pass, and the march from Fuwa to the Afumi capital of Ohotsu. Before we go into the details of the next battles, let's look at what each side of the conflict was doing, what they are concerned about, and where they are on the board.  We'll then go into how the rest of the war played out, and its conclusion and aftermath.     Ohoama's Yoshino forces had largely been drawn from the countries in the east—the very same countries that Ohoama was denying to the Afumi court.  In response, the Afumi court had drawn their forces from where they could.  There were those that they had already called up under the pretense of building Naka no Oe's burial mound, but they had sent others out to raise troops in Yamato and out the western side of Honshu, all the way to Tsukushi—modern Kyushu.  However, not everyone in the Western region of the archipelago was friendly to the Afumi court—especially the regions of Kibi and Tsukushi.  This was significant.  Kibi was an ancient rival of Yamato, and likely could contribute a sizeable force.  Tsukushi, on the other hand, was quite large, and besides the conscripts from among the regular inhabitants, Tsukushi also was in charge of defending the archipelago from invasion—they were the first line of defense.  They had constructed numerous castles and fortifications to defend against a possible invasion, and those castles and fortifications were no doubt manned by troops that had been raised for that purpose.  If they could now be turned inwards, that could be enough to really turn the tide against Ohoama and his Yoshino army. The only problem was that neither Kibi nor Tsukushi were exactly sympathetic to the Afumi court.  The governor of Kibi and Prince Kurikuma, the viceroy of Tsukushi, both had ties to Ohoama, and the ministers suspected them of sympathizing with their Yoshino rivals.  As such the envoys that were sent out were authorized to take whatever drastic steps they felt necessary to secure the troops. So how did that all go down?  Well, last episode we talked about how Hodzumi no Momotari and his crew had been stopped from raising troops in Asuka by Ohotomo no Fukei, whose bluff of pretending to be Prince Takechi and a host of cavalry soldiers caused the conscripted troops to flee, and ended up in the death of Momotari and the capture of his compatriots. In Kibi, things took a turn in Afumi's favor.  When the Afumi government's envoy arrived at the government center in Kibi, he tricked the governor into taking off his sword.  Once he had done so, the envoy drew his own sword and killed the governor.  Without the governor to get in his way, the envoy then went about securing the land and troops for the Afumi court. Prince Kurikuma, the viceroy in Tsukushi, at the Dazaifu, was not quite so easily fooled, however.  Kurikuma knew how the court operated, and was apparently well informed of what was going on.  When the Afumi court's envoy met with Kurikuma, the Prince was flanked by two of his sons, Prince Mino and Prince Takebe, each one armed.  When Prince Kurikuma heard what the Afumi court wanted—for him to send the troops from Tsukushi to help quell Ohoama's rebellion—Kurikuma responded that he needed those troops to hold the border.  After all, the Tang dynasty was still a potential threat, and what good would it do to send the troops from the border regions to fight an internal war, only to then have an invader come in and destroy the state entirely?  No, he reasoned, he would not be sending the troops as the Afumi court requested. We are told that for a moment, the Afumi envoy thought about grabbing his sword and killing Prince Kurikuma, as the Afumi court had suggested, but with both of Kurikuma's sons armed on either side of him, he realized that he didn't have great odds, and so he eventually left, empty handed, but alive. This is significant.  While we don't know exact numbers, it is likely that there were quite a few troops stationed in Kyushu and the islands, all in case of foreign invasion.  By not supplying them to the Afumi court, Prince Kurikuma dealt a huge blow to the Afumi's ability to make war.  Add to that the fact that Ohoama had likewise blocked the court's access to the eastern countries, and that further narrowed the troops that Afumi had access to.  Nonetheless, they still had enough to be dangerous, and it is impossible to say exactly what might happen in a war. So we know where the Afumi and Yoshino forces ostensibly came from, but let's talk about the battlefield.  All of the fighting that we talk about was happening in an area between Naniwa—modern Ohosaka—and Fuwa, modern Sekigahara, northwest from the modern city of Nagoya. There are three main theaters we are talking about.  The first is in the Nara basin, which we talked about extensively in the last episode.  The Nara basin itself was not necessarily of the most strategic importance, militarily, but it was of huge symbolic importance.  After all, that was still the ancient capital, even though the governmental functions had been moved north, to Ohotsu, on the shores of Lake Biwa.  The second is in the Suzuka mountains.  This includes the areas of Iga and Kouka, and it is bordered by the Nara basin on the west, the Mie coastline on the east, and Afumi, the area around lake Biwa, to the north.  This is the same region that Ohoama had to naviagate through on his way from Yoshino to the east, and the mountains and valleys make it so that there are only so many traversable routes through.  For our narrative we are going to be primarily talking about the Kurafu Pass, between Kouka and Iga, at modern Tsuge city.  This pass  was an important route between Kouka, Iga, and Mie.  The road followed the Soma River which eventually flowed into Lake Biwa.  This made it a route out of Afumi, and if the Afumi forces could secure the Kurafu pass and the fields of Tara, just on the other side, they could split Ohoama's forces and cut off any help that he could possibly send to the Nara basin, and possibly even take Ohoama from behind. Finally, let's talk about our third theater:  Afumi itself.  Specifically, we are looking at the southern and eastern sides around Lake Biwa.  Biwa is the largest lake in Japan, and it is almost entirely surrounded by mountains except for where the Seta river flows south, eventually winding its way to Naniwa.  Today, the area of Afumi is largely co-located with modern Shiga Prefecture. Back in 668, after finding themselves on the losing side of the Baekje-Tang war, Naka no Oe, aka Tenji Tennou, had moved the capital to Ohotsu, or Big Port, in Afumi, on the shores of Lake Biwa, likely for the protection it gave.  From Afumi, there were three major routes out of the basin, and a few minor ones.  All of them were through defensible mountain passes, like Karafu Pass, Fuwa Pass, and Suzuka Pass.  Three such passes:  Fuwa, Suzuka, and Arachi would become prominent barriers, or seki, along the ancient roads, and were known as the Sangen, or Three Barriers, protecting the capital region.  Suzuka no seki, at the pass of the same name, was in the south.  To reach it from Afumi, one crossed the Karafu pass, and then turned east through a pass near Mt. Miyama.  At the northern tip of the Suzuka mountains was Fuwa pass, future home of the Fuwa barrier.  The Barrier, or “Seki” would give its name to the area in another form:  Sekigahara.  This was along the Tousandou, the Eastern Mountain road, and even today it is the path through which roads and even the Shinkansen traverse between eastern and western Honshu.  Finally, though less important to our story, was the Arachi pass. Arachi no seki was part of the Hokurikudo, the Northern Land Route, and led to the ancient country of Kochi and the port of Tsuruga, which had a long history as an alternate port, especially for ships sailing from Goguryeo.  Later, Arachi no seki would be replaced in the Sangen ranking by another pass between Afumi and modern Kyoto, which would be known as the Afusaka, or Ohosaka, Pass.  This was the pass that would have been used to get to Yamashiro and, from there, to Naniwa and the Nara Basin. These three passes would come to define the island of Honshu, and became the dividing line between the Kanto region, in the east, and the Kansai region, in the west.  By holding the Suzuka and Fuwa passes, Ohoama effectively denied any travel to the eastern regions.  Sure, Afumi could have tried going through the Arachi pass and into Kochi, but then they would have had to traverse the Japan alps—no small feat, especially without modern conveniences like the trains and busses used today. From Fuwa Pass, where Ohoama and Prince Takechi had set up their headquarters, it was largely a straight shot to the Afumi capital of Ohotsu.  Between Lake Biwa and the Suzuka mountains is a wide, flat plain, divided primarily by the rivers and streams running out from the mountains into the lake.  Immediately west of Fuwa is the area of Maibara.  Following the shore of the lake one traverses through modern Hikone, to Yasu.  Yasu would also have been the location where the road to the Karafu pass broke off into the Suzuka mountains.  Beyond that was the bridge across the Seta River. The Seta river was one of the largest obstacles that would have to be negotiated, and the Afumi forces knew this.  Just as Ohoama would set up at Fuwa pass, a large number of the Afumi forces were set up on the western bank of the Seta river.  If the Yoshino forces could get across, however, it would mean that they had a more or less unimpeded route to the capital at Ohotsu. So now let's talk about what was happening in each of these places. Ohoama had set up at Fuwa—Sekigahara—and had begun to call soldiers to him.  Not only did did this allow him to block the rival Afumi troops from accessing the Eastern countries and possibly raising troops to use against him, but he was also able to maintain a line of communication with ancient Yamato, in the Nara Basin.  In order to keep his communication lines open, and to ensure that the Afumi forces couldn't sneak up behind him, Ohoama split his forces in two.  He knew that Afumi forces were trying to take his stronghold in Yamato, and if successful, from there they could move in to Uda and on to Iga.  thereafter that, they could march up behind him through the Suzuka pass.  Alternatively, the forces in Afumi could come up through Kouka and the Karafu pass, and then try to divide and conquer So the first group of Ohoama's army were to go south, through the Suzuka pass into their mountain namesake.  Once there, Oho no Omi no Honji was to hold Tarano, the Plain of Tara, where the routes to Suzuka, Kafuka, and Iga met.  Tanaka no Omi no Tarumaro went with him, with orders to guard the Kurafu pass, which is to say the road to Kouka.  This first group was headed by Ki no Omi no Abemaro, and also included Miwa no Kimi no Kobito, and Okizome no Muraji no Usagi.  Along with what we are told were tens of thousands of men, this first made their way south from Fuwa  through Mie and Ise and over the Suzuka pass.  Once there, they took up their positions at Karafu and Tarano.  It was a good thing, too, because only a couple of days after they arrived, the enemy struck.   Now as soon as he got there, Oho no Honji had fortified Tarano with some three thousand men, and Tanaka no  Tarumaro was sent to guard the Kurafu pass.  Prior to this, Tarumaro had been the official in charge of the Hot Springs in Ise, but he had joined Ohoama and the Yoshino forces when they first arrived over the Suzuka Pass.  Now he was in charge of a military force, encamped along the road through the Kurafu pass, waiting for the enemy. Unbeknownst to him, a deputy commander of the Afumi forces, Tanabe no Wosumi, was approaching from Mt. Kafuka.  Presumably he'd been sent out from Ohotsu and had followed the road along the Yasu and Soma rivers towards the pass.  Wosumi had  sizeable force with him, but he was not looking for a direct assault.  Even if he would win, he would suffer casualties, especially trying to attack an entrenched enemy in a fortified position.  He needed to be sneaky.  He had no way of knowing that, centuries later, the lands of Iga and Kouka would be known for their sneaky warriors—their legendary ninja—but I digressed.  What Wosumi did was this.  First, he rolled up his banners and muffled the drums.  He even had his men gag themselves—a continental custom where soldiers were given a stick to hold in their mouth, like a horse's bit, to discourage any talking amongst the ranks as they approached.  Presumably, they kept them in until just before attacking, because they also devised a watchword “kane”—transcribed as metal or gold.  Wosumi knew that it would be hard enough to tell who was who in the daytime—after all, it wasn't like these were regimented forces with uniforms.  The soldiers were likely all wearing whatever they had available, and clothing and armor would have been similar across the two armies.  At night, even some kind of mark or flag would hardly be enough to tell who was who in the dark.  As lines broke and melee ensued, it would be easy to get turned around, and find yourself facing a friend.  By saying the watchword you could distinguish friend from foe. Sure enough, this tactic worked.  The Afumi forces broke through the Yoshino fortifications in the middle of the night and swarmed into the encampment.  Men who had been asleep were waking up to chaos.  Tarumaro's Yoshino soldiers were thrown into confusion.  Tarumaro himself, escaped, but just barely.  we are told that he noticed that the enemy kept shouting the word “kane”, and so he started doing it as well. The Afumi forces, assuming he was one of their own, left him alone.  Still, he only escaped with difficulty. His escape was no doubt critical, however.   He presumably would have headed to Tarano to try and warn Oho no Honji, but this may not have been possible, as we are told that on the following day, after the attack at Karafu pass, the Afumi commander Wosumi continued his advance, and came upon the Yoshino encampment at Tarano unexpectedly.  Still, General Honji did not back down.  With a force of hand-picked soldiers, Honji counterattacked against Wosumi and struck him.  We are told that Wosumi made it out—the only one who did—but that he did not try and make another attack.  The Yoshino forces would ultimately hold the pass and the critical juncture of Tarano.  The Afumi forces would not get a second chance. By the way, a quick note here:  I can't help but notice a bit of a trope showing up in these stories:  At Narayama, General Fukei is defeated, and is the only person who makes his escape.  Then Tarumaro is the only person to escape his defeat.  Finally, Wosumi is the only one of his forces to leave the plain of Tara. I am more than a little incredulous that these generals are the only ones who actually survived, and that the rest of the army was slaughtered.  In fact, you may recall that at the battle at Taima, General Fukei told his men not to pursue the fleeing common soldiers.  As I've tried to point out, the common soldiers were not likely as invested in the cause.  In fact, it is just as possible that the common soldiers may have changed sides and joined the other army if they thought it would serve them well.  Or maybe they were escaping and just blending into the countryside.  After all, the elites weren't really spending the time to get to know them, let along record any details about them.  So I suspect that it was more about the fact that the various armies would be broken, and the soldiers flung to the four corners, rather than that they were necessarily slaughtered.  After all, if you had the choice, would you have stayed there? A few days after Wosumi was defeated, the Yoshino general that Ohoama had sent to Iga along with Honji and Tarumaro, Ki no Omi no Abemaro, heard that their ally, Ohotomo no Fukei was in trouble in the Nara Basin.  He'd been defeated by the Afumi general Ohono no Hatayasu at Narayama,  and without reinforcements, the entire Nara Basin could fall, along with the ancient Yamato capital at Asuka. So Abemaro sent Okizome no Muraji no Usagi with more than a thousand cavalry to go assist.  They met Fukei at Sumizaka, and suddenly, things were looking up in the Nara Basin.  For more on how that turned out, check out last episode, where we covered the events in the Nara Basin. Once the events in the Nara Basin settled out, then both the Nara Basin and the Karafu pass would be well and truly in the hands of the Yoshino forces.  But there was no way for those guarding those locations to know that the fighting was over, and they would have to hold their positions until the fighting had definitively stopped.  Which brings us back to Ohoama and the Yoshino troops gathered at Fuwa, where things were about to kick off as well.  The troops at Fuwa, while being led by Ohoama and his 19 year old son, Takechi, were placed under the command of Murakuni no Muraji no Woyori—who, , as things progressed, would be noted as the primary general for the campaign that would lead Yoshino troops from Fuwa, on the offensive towards Ohotsu. The only reason that they seem to have waited before going on the offensive was that every day, more troops were coming in.  So even as the fighting was going on in Nara and at the Karafu pass, the Yoshino army at Fuwa gathered men and made their preparations.  As they did so, the Afumi court Was going to do whatever they could to try and break them, hoping that they could stop the threat posed by Ohoama and his men before they began their march. For the Afumi forces first attempt to break the Yoshino defenses at Fuwa pass, they picked troops to try and make an incursion into the village of Tamakurabe, which appears to have been in the pass itself; it was probably modern Tama district of Sekigahara.  They were repelled, however, by Izumo no Omi no Koma, who drove them off. Later, the Afumi court ordered another force of several tens of thousands of men to attack under the command of Prince Yamabe no Ou, Soga no Omi no Hatayasu, and Kose no Omi no Hito.  Soga no Hatayasu and Kose no Hito were both part of the inner circle of the Afumi court, or so it would seem.  When Prince Ohotomo had taken the reins of the government in a ceremony in the Western Hall of the Palace, he was attended by the ministers of the right and left, as well as Soga no Hatayasu, Kose no Hito, and Ki no Ushi.  They were at the very heart of this whole matter.  Prince Yamabe is a little bit more of a mystery.  We know he was someone of note, and when Prince Ohotsu was brought to his parents, they were apparently traveling under the guise of Prince Yamabe and another prince, Prince Ishikawa.  But we know little else. The three men and their Afumi troops headed out and camped on the bank of the Inukami river, near modern Hikone.  There, however, trouble broke out. The Nihon Shoki does not record exactly what it was, but there must have been some kind of falling out.  Prince Yamabe no Ou was killed by Soga no Hatayasu and Kose no Hito.  We don't know if this was due to some quarrel or what, but either way, it threw the army into a state of disarray and there was no way for them to move forward.  Soga no Hatayasu appears to have taken responsibility for whatever happened, as he headed back from Inukami, presumably back to Ohotsu, where he took his own life by stabbing himself in the throat.  There would be no attack on Fuwa Pass, however. Finally, the Nihon Shoki also recounts the story of another Afumi general, named Hata no Kimi no Yakuni, and his son, Ushi.  Together with others, who remain unnamed, they surrendered themselves to Ohoama and the Yoshino forces, rather than fighting.  It isn't clear if they were deserters, if they had been part of one of the other two attempts to take Fuwa Pass, or if there was something else going on.  Either way, Ohoama was so pleased that he welcomed them in and we are told that Hata no Yakuni was “granted a battle axe and halberd” and appointed a general.  This is probably stock phrasing, but it does seem he was given some measure of trust.  Yakuni's men were then sent north, to Koshi. We aren't quite sure what those forces' ultimate objective was.  It may have been that he was to take the northern pass and make sure that none of the Afumi troops tried to escape and head to the East along that road.  Many of the accounts of this war seem to suggest that he, or at least some part of the forces, were to head north and then come around Lake Biwa the long way.  This would mean that if Ohoama attacked, there would be no easy way to flee.  From Ohotsu they couldn't turn north without running into more troops, and their only escape would seem to be through the Afusaka pass towards the area of modern Kyoto.  And of course, whoever was victorious in the Nara Basin would then be able to control the route to the coast. It is unclear how much Ohoama could have actually known, though, about what was happening across the various distances.  Messages would have meant riders on swift horses carrying them; they couldn't just text each other what was going on. And so, with one attack repelled, another aborted, and a turncoat now on their side, Ohoama's Yoshino forces were finally ready to head out on the offensive themselves.  According to the Nihon Shoki this was on the 7th day of the 7th month—Tanabata, today, but I doubt people were paying much mind to the Weaver and the Cowherd.  Murakuni no Woyori, with the group advancing from Fuwa to Afumi, set out, and met with their first resistance at the Yokugawa river in Okinaga.  As far as I can tell, this is likely the Amano River in modern Maibara, which anyone who takes the Shinkansen between Kanto and Kansai probably recognizes as one of the usual stops.  Once again, we have a situation where, while they would have had banners flying, in the crush of battle it could be quite easy to mistake friend for foe, especially with large numbers of troops who were pulled from vastly different regions.  You had to have some way of knowing quickly who was on your side – that's why the Afumi commander Wosumi had his troops use the password “kane”, for example.  Ohoama's approach was to have his men place a red mark—possibly a ribbon or similar—on their clothing so that one could tell who, at a glance, was on their side.  As a note, later samurai would sometimes attach flags to their shoulder armor, or sode, and these “sode-jirushi” would help identify you even if people didn't recognize your armor.  Ohoama's troops may have used something similar. And so Woyori's Yoshino forces attacked the Afumi defenders, and the Afumi troops were clearly outmatched.  Woyori's men killed the Afumi commander and defeated the opposing forces. But that was just the beginning.  Afumi forces had been stationed all along the route from Fuwa to Ohotsu.  Thus it was that only two days later Woyori and his men made it to Mt. Tokoyama, probably in Hikone, by the Seri river.  There they met more Afumi soldiers, but once again they were triumphant and slew the opposing commander.   Woyori and his men were on a roll. I would point out that these battles aren't given much detail, but we do see how it progressed.  There are names of various individuals and commanders—certainly not much on the common people.  From what we can tell, this was not a rush to Ohotsu, but rather a slow march, probably doing their best to fortify their positions and make sure that nobody was sneaking up on them.  After each battle, it is some days before the next, probably spent spying out ahead and formulating plans. Woyori and his men next fought a battle on the banks of the Yasukawa River, presumably near modern Yasu city.  Here, Aston's translation claims that he suffered a great defeat, but more likely I suspect it means to say that he inflicted a great defeat on the Afumi forces, because if he had been defeated, how would he have pressed on only a few days later.  We are told that  two men, presumably the Afumi commanders, were both taken prisoner. Since we don't have anything more about them in the narrative all we can really do is assume that they must have therefore been on the side of the Afumi forces. By taking Yasu, that would have likely cut off the Afumi forces from any future considerations about using the Kurafu Pass.  The noose around Ohotsu was slowly tightening. Four days after that, on the 17th day of the 7th month, Woyori attacked and repulsed the Kurimoto army—presumably a force loyal to the Afumi court under a general named Kurimoto, or possibly raised from a place called Kurimoto, perhaps over on Awaji.  Either way, it was another victory on Woyori's belt. From there, Woyori and his men arrived at Seta, where they would have to cross the Setagawa—the Seta River. The Seta River is a wide river, and the only one flowing out of Lake Biwa.  It winds its way south and west, eventually becoming the Uji and then the Yodo rivers, which flow all the way to Naniwa—modern Ohosaka.  At the Seta river, there was a major bridge, the only way across, other than to swim.  Prince Ohotomo and his ministers, along with their entire army, were encamped on the west side of the bridge.  Their forces were so numerous that it was said you could not see all the way to the back of them.  Their banners covered the plain, and the dust of their movement caused a cloud to rise into the sky.  Their drums and songs could be heard for miles around.  We are told they even had crossbows, and when they were discharged the arrows fell like rain.  Of course, some of this may have just been more poetic license by the authors of the Nihon Shoki, but you get the picture:  There were a lot of troops on the western side of the river. The bridge itself was defended by General Chison.  We know very little of this general, as he only appears in this one part of the record, but his name implies that he may have been from the continent.  We aren't given a surname, and it is possible he was one of the Baekje refugees, now fighting for the Afumi court.  He led an advance body of specially selected troops, and in the middle of the bridge they had removed planks for about three rods or thirty feet.  Across that span was a single plank, daring anyone to try and cross it.  Of course, if they did, they would be a sitting duck in front of the enemy archers, and the plank was attached by a rope so that it could always be pulled out from under them.  It seemed as if it were impossible to advance. Finally, one of Woyori's soldiers, Ohokida no Kimi no Wakaomi, got up the courage to cross.  We are told that he put on double armor, put down his long spear, and drew his sword.  He then charged suddenly across the plank and cut the rope on the other side before the Afumi troops could pull it back.  In spite of the arrows that were raining down on him, he entered the ranks of the Afumi troops, slashing with his sword as he went.  The Afumi forces were thrown into confusion and some of them tried to leave, but General Chison drew his own sword and began to cut down anyone who tried to flee.  Still, he was unable to check the rout.  Woyori's troops secured the bridge and soon were pouring across it.  They cut down General Chison and advanced into the Afumi army, who broke and ran.  The Afumi sovereign, Ohotomo, aka Koubun Tennou, along with the Ministers of the Left and Right, narrowly escaped with their lives. Woyori and his troops marched to the foot of Awazu hill, and we are told that Hata no Yakuni, the Afumi commander who had earlier defected, and whose men were sent north to Koshi, set a siege to Miwo castle along with Izumo no Koma, who had defended against the attempted seizure of Tamakurabe.  Presumably this is Mio, south of Ohotsu, and it was likely guarding the southern approach to the Afumi capital. The only thing here that gives me pause is that we were earlier told that Yakuni's men, after he defected, were sent to Koshi.  So was Yakuni not with them?  Had he returned?  Or had the troops made it all the way around Lake Biwa already, taking the longer route up and around the lake? Regardless of how it happened, Yakuni and Koma were able to take Miwo castle.  As a reminder, a “castle” at this time would have likely been defined more by its walls, which were probably rammed earth and wood—not the elegantly sloping stone walls and  donjon base that would come to typify castles of the Warring States period. The following day, Woyori and his men continued their pursuit.  At the Awazu marketplace, Woyori ran into the Afumi generals Inukahi no Muraji no Isokimi and Hasama no Atahe no Shihote.  We mentioned Isokimi last episode—he was the Afumi commander attacking the Middle Road in the Nara Basin.  His deputy, Kujira, had been defeated, and it seems Isokimi had retreated back to Afumi and rejoined the main force. He would not be quite so fortunate this time.  Isokimi and Shihote were both slain, and Ohotomo fled once again.  He didn't get very far, hiding at Yamazaki, thought to be near the site of the modern city hall, in Ohotsu. Despite his best efforts, he knew he would be discovered, and he eventually strangled himself, rather than facing the humiliation and punishment that would come with capture. With Ohotomo dead, the other ministers of the Afumi court dispersed and fled.  Woyori and his men, meeting up at Sasanami, hunted down the Ministers of the Left and Right—Soga no Akaye and Nakatomi no Kane—as well as others who had fought with Ohotomo and who were considered criminals. They were all marched back to Fuwa, where, on the 25th day of the 7th month, Ohotomo's head was presented to Ohoama.  The war, it seems, was over. Or at least, the fighting was over.  There was still a lot to be settled.  First off, it would hardly have been practical to wipe out every single person on the losing side.  For one thing, that would have devastated the Court even further, likely creating a huge power vacuum.  In addition, many of the supporters on both sides were not necessarily there out of purely partisan reasons.  I would point out that many of the family names that we see in the record are found on both sides of the conflict.  Inukahi no Isokimi may have fought for Ohotomo, but we also see an Inukahi no Ohotomo fighting on the behalf of Ohoama.  Fumi no Nemaro was a major commander in Ohoama's army, while Fumi no Kusuri had been sent by the Afumi court to raise troops in the East Country.  And Hasama no Shihote was killed with Isokimi at Awazu, while a Hasama no Nemaro was working under the command of General Fukei, in Nara, to guard Tatsuta. There wasn't necessarily a simple divide along family lines.  It is possible that these individuals were all fairly well removed from each other, and from different parts of their respective families, or clans. They are often given different kabane, the family rank system used at this time, though I suspect that may have more to do with later changes, with those on the winning side being promoted over those who supported the Afumi court.  However, it is also the case that Japan has a long history of family members supporting both sides in any major conflict.  That way, no matter who wins, the family itself finds itself on the winning side. But there did have to be some accountability.  This is something that one can point to time and again—if the losing side is not held accountable for their actions, then what is to prevent them from just regrouping and trying again?  And yet that need for justice and punishment must be tempered with some amount of humanity. Ultimately, about one month after the end of the war, eight of the Afumi ministers were found guilty of truly heinous offences and they were condemned to suffer what the Nihon Shoki says was the “Extreme Penalty”.  The Minister of the Right, Nakatomi no Kane, was executed at Tane, in Asai.  Meanwhile the Minister of the Left, Soga no Akaye; along with the Dainagon, or Grand Councillor, Kose no Hito, as well as their children and grandchildren, along with the children of the late Nakatomi no Kane and Soga no Hatayasu, were all sent into banishment.  All others were pardoned. And of course those who had supported Ohoama, and who had come to his aid, were given public favour and reward.  In many cases this likely meant receiving high office and corresponding rank, along with increased stipend payments.  There is a notable shift in the makeup of the court, going forward, and it seems clear that families would want to associate themselves with those who fought on Ohoama's side, rather than Ohotomo's, if they could help it.  That was no doubt a part of works like the various diaries and house records that would have been used to compile the Nihon Shoki, recording the deeds that any house did for the throne. Along with all of the punishments and plaudits that were meted out in the 8th month of 672, there was one more event—something of an outlier.  We are told that Chihisakobe no Muraji no Sabichi, the governor of the province of Wohari, went off into the mountains and committed suicide. Sabichi had originally met Ohoama at the Kuwana district house—the local government office—when he had first arrived from Yoshino.  He had a large number of troops—20,000 by the Nihon Shoki's count—which helped Ohoama to ultimately defeat the Afumi court.  So why he would go off into the mountains and commit suicide was anyone's guess.  The Nihon Shoki suggests that it was possible that his allegiance had changed, and he may have been trying to plot against Ohoama.  Perhaps he had been convinced that Afumi court was going to come out on top, and so had begun some plot.  Or he just had a falling out or became disillusioned for some reason.  Whatever it was, it remains a mystery, even today. With the war concluded, it was time for Ohoama to make his way from the field to the Capital so that he could transition to ruling the State properly.  But Ohoama was not interested, it would seem, in setting himself up in his brother's capital.  Setting up in the Ohotsu capital may have raised a few eyebrows.  It had not been a completely popular move to begin with, and it was also the home of the Afumi court's legitimacy.  To take up the throne there, I can only imagine that it would have further reinforced the idea that Ohoama was the usurper, taking the throne that was meant for his nephew.  Instead, he made the decision to travel to the ancient capital, in Asuka, but he was not in a hurry. They headed out on the 8th day of the 9th month of 672, making it from Fuwa to Kuwana.  Here he likely met up with his wife, Princess Uno, and his ten year old son, Prince Ohotsu.  The following day they headed out, traveling back along the route that they had taken from Yoshino, but at a much more leisurely route.  The royal carriage stayed the night in Suzuka.  From there, it was another day to Abe, likely referring to modern Ahai county, in Iga, near Ueno city.  They then continued on to Nabari.  Finally, on the 12th day,they arrived at the Yamato capital—that is to say Asuka—and Ohoama took up residence for a time at the Shima Palace.  This was only, it seems, to give people time to get the actual palace ready, because three days later, Ohoama moved into the Wokamoto Palace.  And with that, Ohoama began the work of running the state—but there was still plenty to prepare.  For one thing, there were foreign embassies—Kim Ap-sil and others arrived.  It was still going to take a while to get the capital ready for guests, though.  From what we can tell, they were probably building a grand new palace, and it would take some time for it to be prepared.  So the Silla embassy was entertained in Tsukushi, where Prince Kurikuma would have been in charge of hosting them.  They were likely filled on the new developments and provided a ship. Meanwhile, Ohoama made sure that all of the appropriate rewards were given out.  On the 4th day of the 12th month, we are told that all those who had rendered services were given higher cap-ranks, based on what they had done. And as the year 672 closes out—and with it, the first of the two Chronicles for Ohoama, the soon-to-be elevated Temmu Tennou. But there is one final entry, marking the death of Wina no Kimi no Takami in the 12th month of the year.  We know that Wina no Kimi no *Iwasuki* was working for the Afumi court, sent to rally troops in the East, but he fled when they encountered Ohoama's troops at Fuwa Pass.  Takami, on the other hand, we know little about, but I suspect may have been on the side of Ohoama.  It is an odd entry, and, like so many, unexplained.  Perhaps it meant something to the people of the early 8th century, but if so, that meaning is likely lost to us. And so we close the book on the Jinshin no Ran—the Jinshin War, or possibly the Disturbance or even Rebellion, depending on how you feel about it.  This account is one of the most detailed we have of this kind of event, and yet it does not seem that it was entirely unique.  There are plenty of indications that previous sovereigns had to fight their way to the throne, or else had to repel others who would try to take it by force.  This was almost a tradition among the royal house of Yamato.  But now that the matter of succession was well and truly settled, it was time to get on with other things. Who knows what an Afumi court may have done and how they could have changed things.  What we do know is what Ohoama—and his queen, Uno no Himemiko—did.  They built upon, or in some cases possibly even fabricated, the legacy of Naka no Oe.  They would set in stone many of the things that had been put in place, and at the same time make certain changes, as well.  The Yamato state was getting started. And we'll start to dive into that next episode.  Until then, thank you once again for listening and for all of your support. If you like what we are doing, please tell your friends and feel free to rate us wherever you listen to podcasts.  If you feel the need to do more, and want to help us keep this going, we have information about how you can donate on Patreon or through our KoFi site, ko-fi.com/sengokudaimyo, or find the links over at our main website,  SengokuDaimyo.com/Podcast, where we will have some more discussion on topics from this episode. Also, feel free to reach out to our Sengoku Daimyo Facebook page.  You can also email us at the.sengoku.daimyo@gmail.com.  Thank you, also, to Ellen for their work editing the podcast. And that's all for now.  Thank you again, and I'll see you next episode on Sengoku Daimyo's Chronicles of Japan.  

Rebuild
411: Asking For A Friend (kansai_takako)

Rebuild

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 12, 2025 93:16


閑歳孝子さんをゲストに迎えて、Claude Code, GPT-5、LLMエージェント、藤井風などについて話しました。 スポンサー: 株式会社フィックスターズ Show Notes Anthropic tightens usage limits for Claude Code — without telling users Subagents - Anthropic GitHub CEO: Future devs will not code, they will manage AI Introducing GPT-5 | OpenAI Introducing gpt-oss | OpenAI Groq Tasker Limitless Pixel Screenshots We request to keep 4o forever. : r/ChatGPT Rebuild Supporter Outside Lands Music Festival フィックスターズ *

Krewe of Japan
Season 6 Midseason Update

Krewe of Japan

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 2, 2025 4:59


A quick update from the Krewe on a short release break & things to come! Big things poppin' with the Krewe!!------ About the Krewe ------The Krewe of Japan Podcast is a weekly episodic podcast sponsored by the Japan Society of New Orleans. Check them out every Friday afternoon around noon CST on Apple, Google, Spotify, Amazon, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts.  Want to share your experiences with the Krewe? Or perhaps you have ideas for episodes, feedback, comments, or questions? Let the Krewe know by e-mail at kreweofjapanpodcast@gmail.com or on social media (Twitter: @kreweofjapan, Instagram: @kreweofjapanpodcast, Facebook: Krewe of Japan Podcast Page, TikTok: @kreweofjapanpodcast, LinkedIn: Krewe of Japan LinkedIn Page, Blue Sky Social: @kreweofjapan.bsky.social, & the Krewe of Japan Youtube Channel). Until next time, enjoy!------ Support the Krewe! Offer Links for Affiliates ------Use the referral links below & our promo code from the episode!Support your favorite NFL Team AND podcast! Shop NFLShop to gear up for football season!Zencastr Offer Link - Use my special link to save 30% off your 1st month of any Zencastr paid plan! ------ JSNO Info & Upcoming Events ------Support the Krewe - Donate to JSNO!JSNO Event CalendarJoin JSNO Today!

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The Pacific War - week by week
- 193 - Pacific War Podcast - The Siege of Japan - July 29 - August 5, 1945

The Pacific War - week by week

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 29, 2025 52:23


Last time we spoke about Operation Downfall. The Allies, under General Krueger, initiated a decisive campaign to clear the Japanese from Luzon. As they faced the entrenched Shobu Group, challenges included treacherous terrain and a resilient enemy. Simultaneously, Japan braced for an invasion, mobilizing reinforcements and devising defensive strategies to ward off the impending Allied assault. As July approached, General Yamashita's forces prepared to execute a final breakout, but progress was hampered by relentless guerrilla attacks and adverse weather conditions. With Operation Downfall looming, Allied troops focused on strategic landings in Kyushu and Honshu, driven by a relentless determination to defeat the Japanese militarily. The intense battles of Luzon became a precursor to this monumental operation, marking a turning point in the Pacific War.  This episode is The Siege of Japan Welcome to the Pacific War Podcast Week by Week, I am your dutiful host Craig Watson. But, before we start I want to also remind you this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Perhaps you want to learn more about world war two? Kings and Generals have an assortment of episodes on world war two and much more  so go give them a look over on Youtube. So please subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry for some more history related content, over on my channel, the Pacific War Channel you can find a few videos all the way from the Opium Wars of the 1800's until the end of the Pacific War in 1945.  Boy I have been waiting a long time to come to this point. One of the most significant events in human history that deeply affects us to this very day. Nuclear war is as much a threat today as it was during the cold war. The dropping of the Atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki were deeply complicated events fraught with issues of morality. It goes without saying whether or not the bombs needed to be dropped, their actual impact on the surrender of Japan and so forth are still issues hotly debated to this very day. I have spoken on the issue countless times on my personal channel and podcast, but I figure to do this subject justice I will create a full episode for it. Thus in this episode we are going to just cover what happened, but rest assured I will come back to this later on. As we last explored, following the successful invasion of Luzon in the Philippines, along with the fall of Iwo Jima and Okinawa, American forces began preparing for the final invasion of the Japanese Home Islands. This operation was codenamed Operation Downfall. One key initiative leading up to this invasion was a comprehensive air-sea blockade and bombardment campaign against Japan itself. Previously, we detailed the extensive firebombing and precision bombing efforts executed by General LeMay's 21st Bomber Command. However, during this crucial period, the B-29 Superfortress bombers undertook a distinct operation under the codename Starvation. This single operation would be one of the largest factors that contributed to the surrender of Japan and its one most people have never heard of. In July 1944, Admiral Chester W. Nimitz proposed a bold plan to use B-29 Superfortress bombers to mine the waterways surrounding the Japanese Home Islands. Although Generals Henry H. Arnold and Walter Hansell expressed concerns that this mining campaign could distract from the B-29's primary role as a strategic bombardment aircraft, they eventually agreed to assign one bomber group to focus on aerial mining when conditions permitted. On December 22, Hansell's 21st Bomber Command was directed to formulate a naval mining program aimed at executing between 150 to 200 sorties each month, which was set to begin in April 1945. However, by this time, General Curtis LeMay had taken command of the 21st Bomber Command. LeMay was notably enthusiastic about the idea and successfully recommended to Washington an upgraded mining program that aimed to deploy up to 1,500 mines each month using a full B-29 wing. LeMay viewed aerial mining in a different light than Arnold or Hansell, seeing it as a vital extension of strategic bombing. He recognized that most of Japan's war production materials, as well as a significant portion of its food supplies, were imported from regions such as China, Southeast Asia, and the Dutch East Indies. Japan's industrial heartland is primarily found on Honshu, its largest and most industrialized island, while Shikoku, another island, also lacks essential resources such as iron ore and high-quality coal. These crucial materials were sourced from Kyushu and Hokkaido, both of which are other Japanese islands. All these resources were transported by sea, so without easy access to raw materials, Japan's industrial output would come to a grinding halt. The only aircraft capable of deploying mines effectively where they were needed were the B-29s. Areas such as the Inland Sea, the Sea of Japan, and the Korean Peninsula were out of reach for other Allied aircraft. Additionally, Allied submarines could only venture into these perilous waters with great risk. Notably, about 80% of Japan's merchant fleet utilized the Shimonoseki Strait, a critical waterway that separates Kyushu from Honshu. Understanding the strategic advantage of closing this strait, LeMay decided to allocate an entire wing of B-29s specifically to mine this vital route. Brigadier General John Davies commanded the 313th Bombardment Wing, tasked with deploying approximately 2,000 naval mines each month into Japanese waters. The primary goals of this operation were to prevent essential raw materials and food supplies from reaching the Home Islands, hinder the supply and mobilization of Japanese military forces, and disrupt transportation routes in the Inland Sea of Japan. Between March 27 and April 12, Davies' bombers targeted key enemy shipping bases located in Kure, Sasebo, and Hiroshima. They also focused on the Shimonoseki Strait, a narrow and strategically important waterway that links the Inland Sea with the Tsushima Strait. Notably, after these attacks, this strait was successfully closed for two weeks. On May 3 and 5, the 313th Bombardment Wing laid down a total of 1,422 mines in the waters surrounding the Shimonoseki Strait, as well as near major urban centers like Tokyo, Nagoya, Kobe, and Osaka. These efforts aimed to severely disrupt maritime commerce between Japan's major industrial areas. Just a week later, the minefields expanded from the Shimonoseki Strait to include Kyushu, the southernmost of Japan's four main islands, and northwest Honshu, the largest island containing Tokyo. By the end of that month, these mines were proving remarkably effective, accounting for the sinking of more ships than Japanese submarines. In fact, within the Shimonoseki Strait alone, 113 ships had been sunk. Between June 7 and July 8, American forces expanded and fortified minefields along the western coast of Japan while also replenishing the existing minefields in the Shimonoseki Strait and the Inland Sea. During this effort, they successfully laid a total of 3,542 mines across 14 missions. The "total blockade" officially commenced on July 9 and continued until the end of the war. Throughout this period, American forces executed 474 sorties, dropping another 3,746 mines that replenished existing minefields and extended coverage to harbors in Korea. In total, Brigadier General Davies conducted 46 missions that laid down 26 minefields containing 12,135 mines. Remarkably, only 15 B-29s were lost during these operations. In turn, the mines accounted for the sinking or damaging of 670 Japanese ships, with a total loss of 1.25 million tons. This mining campaign effectively strangled Japanese industry, as the denial of essential raw materials to factories proved more disruptive than the direct bombing of the plants themselves.  Despite the clear vulnerability of Japan's economy to disruptions in coastal shipping, Japanese authorities were alarmingly unprepared to address the threat posed by air-dropped mines. By August 1945, Japan had committed 349 ships and 20,000 personnel to counter the Starvation campaign, but these efforts were overwhelmingly ineffective. The shipping crisis escalated to such a degree that searchlights and anti-aircraft batteries were redeployed from urban centers to defend expected mining targets. Additionally, suicide boats were employed in desperate attempts to clear the minefields. Royal Navy historian S.W. Roskill commented on the situation, stating, “The blockade had, in fact, been far more successful than we realized at the time. Although submarines initially played a critical role in enforcing the blockade, it was the air-laid mines that ultimately strangled Japan.” Japanese officials shared this assessment. A director from a Tokyo steel company reflected on the situation, noting that the denial of essential raw materials to factories caused far greater disruption than the direct bombing of the plants themselves. This contradicted the views of US Army Air Forces experts back in Washington. In a striking remark after the war, a Japanese minesweeping officer told American forces, “The result of B-29 mining was so effective against shipping that it eventually starved the country. You could have likely shortened the war by starting this campaign earlier.” Meanwhile, General LeMay continued his firebombing campaign against Japan. By the end of May, urban areas around Tokyo Bay had been devastated, prompting the 21st Bomber Command to shift focus westward toward the densely populated industrial complexes lining Osaka Bay. On June 1, 521 B-29s were dispatched to bomb industrial targets situated along the Yodo River, with an escort of 148 P-51 fighters. Unfortunately, an undetected thunderstorm struck en route, which meant only 27 P-51s reached Osaka, while another 27 crashed, and the remaining fighters had to return to Iwo Jima. Despite these complications, the B-29s bombed from altitudes ranging between 18,000 and 28,500 feet, successfully dropping 2,788 tons of incendiary bombs on Osaka. The attack resulted in the burning of 3.15 square miles, destroying 136,107 houses and 4,222 factories. Four days later, on June 3, 530 unescorted B-29 Superfortresses launched a bombing raid on the city of Kobe. Of those, 473 aircraft targeted the city, resulting in the destruction of 4.35 square miles. This devastating strike led to the demolition of 51,399 buildings, while another 928 suffered significant damage. The raid, however, came with losses, as 11 bombers were downed, and 176 were damaged in the operation. On June 7, 449 B-29s returned to Osaka. Despite facing heavy cloud cover that restricted visibility, they managed to burn an additional 2.21 square miles of the city, destroying another 55,333 buildings.  By the conclusion of General Curtis LeMay's maximum-effort area bombing campaign, the six most significant industrial cities in Japan, Tokyo, Nagoya, Kobe, Osaka, Yokohama, and Kawasaki, had been left in ruins. Major factories were either destroyed or severely damaged, while thousands of smaller household and feeder industrial units were consumed by flames. Casualty figures surged into six figures, leaving millions of people homeless. The evacuation of survivors further complicated efforts to secure labor for the factories that remained operational. Japan's air-raid protection system proved woefully inadequate to withstand a protracted siege by very heavy bombers. The system lacked sufficient organization, trained personnel, shelters, fire-fighting equipment, and facilities for relief and evacuation. Additionally, there was a significant deficiency in civilian indoctrination regarding emergency procedures. Under the relentless pressure of repeated major attacks, local Air Raid Precaution organizations collapsed, adding strain to an already overburdened imperial government. Japanese civilians, who had been conditioned by victory propaganda, displayed little of the discipline that helped German citizens endure years of aerial bombardment. As news of military defeats and the impact of B-29 precision strikes filtered into the great cities, residents began to lose confidence in their leaders' ability to protect them or care for the victims of the attacks. Abe Motoki, the Minister of Home Affairs at the time, later remarked, “I believe that after the raids on Tokyo on May 23-24, 1945, civilian defense measures in that city, as well as in other parts of Japan, were considered a futile effort.” Regarding the operational cost of this campaign for the 21st Bomber Command, it was not considered excessively burdensome. Over the course of 17 maximum-effort incendiary attacks, LeMay dispatched a total of 6,960 B-29s, which dropped 41,592 tons of bombs. The losses amounted to 136 B-29s, averaging only 1.9% of the sorties, a rate significantly lower than what had been endured in earlier months, and quite acceptable by the standards of conventional strategic bombing. Meteorologists predicted that the summer monsoon would keep Japan's skies covered with clouds for most of the upcoming months, from June to August. As a result, LeMay shifted strategies under what became known as the Empire Plan. This approach prioritized targeting industrial and military sites during daylight hours when the weather permitted, while secondary cities that had sufficient industrial capability became targets for nighttime area attacks. This change meant that since no single target warranted a full four-wing maximum effort, multiple missions could be scheduled in a single day. Accordingly, on June 9, 110 B-29s attacked three aircraft factories located in Narao, Atsuta, and Akashi. The strikes successfully destroyed the factories in Narao and Atsuta, but an unfortunate miscalculation led to the bombing of the town near Akashi. The following day, June 10, a force of 280 B-29s, escorted by 107 P-51 Mustang fighters, targeted six distinct sites in the Tokyo Bay area. The mission yielded significant results, with all targets sustaining heavy damage. Finally, on June 15, 516 B-29s were dispatched for one last firebombing raid against Osaka and the neighboring city of Amagasaki. In this combined assault, 444 bombers dropped over 1,350 tons of incendiary bombs, incinerating an additional 1.9 square miles in Osaka and more than half a square mile in Amagasaki. Starting on June 17, General Curtis LeMay's firebombing campaigns began to focus on medium-sized secondary cities across Japan. On that day, 477 B-29 Superfortresses targeted the cities of Omuta, Hamamatsu, Yokkaichi, and Kagoshima, burning a combined total of six square miles in these urban areas. The success of this initial multi-target mission ensured the continuation of the program, establishing an operational pattern that would remain standard during the final weeks of the war. In total, multiple incendiary attacks were conducted on sixteen occasions, averaging about two missions per week. Between June 17 and August 14, American forces carried out 8,014 sorties, dropping a staggering 54,184 tons of incendiaries across 58 secondary cities. On June 22, 446 B-29s were dispatched to strike six targets located in southern Honshu, including the crucial Kure Naval Arsenal. In this mission, 382 bombers released 2,103 tons of bombs, inflicting heavy damage to these essential manufacturing facilities. Just four days later, on June 26, a force of 510 B-29s, accompanied by 148 P-51 Mustang escorts, targeted locations in southern Honshu and the nearby island of Shikoku. However, dense clouds over much of the area complicated assembly and forced many aircraft to attack targets of opportunity individually or in small groups. As a result, adverse weather conditions would delay subsequent daytime raids until July 24.  In the coordinated strike program that commenced in June, the decision to focus on either the Empire Plan or urban industrial targets was largely influenced by weather conditions. As the program took shape, the 315th Bombardment Wing (VH) became available for combat operations. This wing operated somewhat independently from the other bomber units, with its activities significantly guided by the specialized equipment of its aircraft. Authorized for deployment in the Pacific in December 1944, the 315th settled at Northwest Field, Guam, during May and June. Its commander, Brigadier General Frank A. Armstrong, Jr., was a seasoned veteran of the strategic air offensive against Germany. The B-29s of the 315th Wing differed in two key respects from those of other units. They were equipped with the AN/APQ-7 (Eagle) radar, a sophisticated radar system designed for bombing, instead of the conventional AN/APQ-13 radar. The latter had primarily served as a navigational aid. While crews had become adept at using the AN/APQ-13 for night or poor-weather bombing, it lacked the precision necessary for accurate strikes. The Eagle radar, however, offered significantly greater definition and, although it required a long bomb run averaging seventy miles, this was not considered a serious hindrance in the tactical context of Japan. To further enhance its night-bombing capabilities, the Superfortresses had been stripped of all armament except for the tail gun. This modification, along with the Eagle radar, clearly marked the 315th as a dedicated night-bombing unit. There were various proposals for the use of these specially equipped B-29s, including high-altitude bombing, area bombing, and aerial mining. However, by the time the 315th Wing was ready for combat, the 313th Bombardment Wing had already gained proficiency in aerial mining, while all wings had become adept at area bombing using the AN/APQ-13. Training for the 315th had focused heavily on night radar tactics, with less emphasis on visual bombing and daytime formation flights. It was evident that if the Eagle radar was to undergo a thorough scientific evaluation, it should be tested against a specific set of targets that were preferably large in size and located along the coastline. In the view of the 21st Bomber Command, the oil industry met these requirements perfectly. The 315th Bombardment Wing initiated its specialized campaign on June 26 with a targeted strike against the Utsube Oil Refinery in Yokkaichi, the top-priority target. By August 14, the wing had conducted 15 additional missions against a total of 10 targets, which included various petroleum refineries and synthetic plants, such as the Maruzen Oil Company in Wakayama, Mitsubishi Oil Company in Kawasaki, and Nippon Oil Company plants spread across Akita, Kansai, Kudamatsu, and Amagasaki, as well as the Imperial Fuel Industry Company in Ube and Toa Fuel Industry in Wakayama. During the campaign, the 315th Wing dispatched a total of 1,200 B-29s, 1,095 of which successfully bombed their primary targets, dropping 9,084 tons of 500-pound general-purpose bombs deemed particularly effective against the scattered installations. The increase in bomb load capacity was made possible by stripping the planes of unnecessary equipment and conducting bombing missions individually at night. As the crews gained experience, they were able to increase the average weight carried from 14,631 pounds during the first mission to 20,684 pounds by August 9. Despite concerns about safety from removing most of the aircraft's armaments, only four planes were lost and 66 sustained damage throughout the campaign. The 20th Air Force estimated that the B-29 attacks led to the destruction of approximately 6 million barrels of tank storage capacity, and the United States Strategic Bombing Survey (USSBS) reported that refining capacity had been reduced from 90,000 barrels a day in December 1941 to around 17,000 barrels. However, the strategic impact was more apparent than real, as many storage tanks were empty and refinery production had fallen to just 4% of capacity before the very heavy bomber campaign began. The lack of precise intelligence regarding the state of Japan's economy had justified the emphasis on the oil program as a form of reinsurance. Nevertheless, the blockade had effectively severed the nation's oil resources, resulting in tankers remaining idle at the docks. On July 1, Admiral Halsey's 3rd Fleet departed San Pedro Bay to initiate the first preliminary strikes in preparation for Operation Olympic. This operation involved battleships and heavy cruisers conducting surface bombardments of industrial targets in eastern Japan, while lighter forces performed anti-shipping sweeps along the coast. Additionally, a fleet of submarines advanced ahead of Admiral McCain's Task Force 38 to eliminate picket boats and establish lifeguard positions. At 18:15 on July 9, the force began its 25-knot approach toward the Home Islands, launching its first strikes against the Tokyo area at 04:00 on July 10. A total of 1,732 sorties were executed, targeting locations from Koriyama to Hamamatsu, dropping 454 tons of bombs and 1,648 rockets over Honshu with negligible opposition. American airmen reported the destruction of 109 enemy aircraft and damage to 231 during these strikes.   Following this, Halsey's fleet moved north to bombard Hokkaido and northern Honshu, which were beyond the effective range of the B-29s and had previously evaded attack. At 05:59 on July 14, Rear-Admiral John Shafroth's Bombardment Group Able, consisting primarily of three battleships and two heavy cruisers, was tasked with attacking the Kamaishi Works of the Japan Iron Company. By midday, Shafroth's forces had opened fire on Kamaishi, marking the first surface bombardment of Japan by a hostile fleet in over 80 years. Between 12:10 and 14:19, a total of 802 16-inch shells, 728 8-inch shells, and 825 5-inch shells were expended, setting the town ablaze as key industrial and residential targets were hit and resulting in the sinking of one oil tanker, two barges, and one small ship in the harbor. Simultaneously, McCain's carriers closed to within 80 nautical miles of Japan, launching 1,391 sorties against Hokkaido and northern Honshu to target railways, shipping, and airfields, again facing only light resistance. In the ensuing strikes, American planes sank over 50,000 tons of shipping and naval craft, including the destroyer Tachibana, four minesweepers, eight naval auxiliaries, and around 20 merchant vessels, with significant losses occurring at Muroran and Hakodate. In addition, 25 enemy planes were destroyed, while American losses totaled 24 aircraft and 17 airmen, about half of whom were lost in combat. Task Force 38 launched another assault on July 15, executing 966 combat sorties that dropped 355 tons of bombs and expended 2,093 rockets. This operation resulted in the sinking of 65 vessels and damaging 128 others, as well as the destruction of 48 locomotives and damage to 28. Widespread destruction was inflicted on several facilities, particularly the Aomori–Hakodate railcar ferry system, which transported 30% of the coal between Hokkaido and Honshu. The strikes devastated the ferry system, sinking eight ferries, beaching eight more, and damaging two. In total, 70 auxiliary sailing colliers were sunk, and 11 were damaged, along with 10 steel freighters lost and 7 damaged. The ferry strikes were the brainchild of Halsey's operations officer, Captain Ralph “Rollo” Wilson. “When the first action reports began to sift in,” Halsey related: He snatched them up and pored over them; the ferries were not mentioned. Later reports also ignored them. Rollo was sulking and cursing when the final reports arrived. I heard him whistle and saw him beam. “Six ferries sunk!” he said. “Pretty soon we'll have ‘em moving their stuff by oxcarts and skiffs!”  Additionally, 20 city blocks in Kushiro were razed. The most significant outcome of these operations was the virtual severance of Hokkaido from Honshu. By the end of the raids, Halsey's 3rd Fleet had achieved the sinking of 140 ships and small craft, damaging 235 others, and destroying 38 planes while damaging 46. Meanwhile, Rear-Admiral Oscar Badger's Bombardment Group Baker, composed of three battleships, two light cruisers, and eight destroyers, was assigned to bombard Muroran. Between 09:36 and 10:25, this group fired 860 16-inch shells at the Nihon Steel Company and the Wanishi Ironworks, targeting both the coal liquefaction plant and coke ovens. This bombardment inflicted severe damage on those facilities and resulted in the destruction or damage of 2,541 houses in Muroran. As Hasley recalled “These sweeps and bombardments accomplished more than destruction. they showed the enemy that we made no bones about playing in his front yard. From now on, we patrolled his channels and shelled his coast almost every night that the weather permitted.” Additionally, Rear-Admiral James Cary Jones' four light cruisers conducted a sweep along the east coast of Honshu to hunt for Japanese shipping; however, they reported no contacts during their mission. Early on July 16, Task Force 38 retired east of Honshu to begin refueling and rendezvoused with Admiral Rawlings' Task Force 37, which agreed to operate closely as an additional task group for Admiral Halsey. At 03:50 on July 17, the two task forces began launching strikes against central Honshu despite adverse weather conditions. The American forces executed 205 sorties targeting the Mito area, while British aircraft flew 87 sorties against airfields and railyards along the northwest coast of Honshu. Despite the bad weather, several small craft and locomotives were destroyed, though the operation resulted in the loss of nine aircraft and four airmen. Later that afternoon, Halsey detached Badger's augmented Bombardment Group to attack Hitachi, a significant industrial and electronics-producing city. The 53-minute bombardment commenced in fog and rain at 23:14, during which 1,207 16-inch shells, 267 14-inch shells, and 292 6-inch rounds were expended against the Tago and Mito Works of the Hitachi Manufacturing Company, as well as the Yamate Plant and copper refining facilities of Hitachi Mine, resulting in severe devastation. On July 18, McCain's two leading carriers launched a total of 592 sorties against Yokosuka, specifically targeting the heavily camouflaged battleship Nagato at the naval base. The attacks resulted in the sinking of one old cruiser, one minesweeper, one submarine, one incomplete destroyer, and three patrol vessels, in addition to damaging one subchaser, one old destroyer, and one old battleship. Although Nagato was hit multiple times and suffered heavy damage, it managed to stay afloat. Meanwhile, three carriers also targeted airfields and other opportunities in Tokyo, while Task Force 37 attacked a seaplane base at Kitaura and airfields at Nobara, Naruto, Chosi, Kanoike, Natori, and Kitakawa. The recent raids resulted in the destruction of 43 enemy planes and damage to 77 others on the ground, along with the destruction of three locomotives and the derailing of four electrified train cars by rockets. However, the American forces incurred losses of 14 aircraft and 18 aircrew, as the 3rd Fleet flyers reported encountering the fiercest anti-aircraft fire they had yet experienced. Additionally, Rear-Admiral Carl Holden's four light cruisers were detached during the night to sweep shipping off Sagami Bay and to target the radar site at Cape Nojima. On July 21, Captain Thomas Hederman's Destroyer Squadron 61, consisting of nine destroyers, was assigned to conduct another anti-shipping sweep off Sagami Bay. Pursuing four radar contacts, the destroyers engaged targets at midnight on July 22, firing guns and torpedoes from 7,000 yards. This action resulted in the sinking of the 800-ton freighter No.5 Hakutetsu Maru and damaging the 6,919-ton Enbun Maru. In response, Japanese coastal artillery, the minesweeper W-1, and subchaser Ch-42 returned fire, but Hederman's squadron successfully retired without damage. Although minor in scale, the Battle of Sagami Bay would ultimately be the last surface action of the war. Meanwhile, as part of Operation Barney, a planned submarine penetration of the Sea of Japan, nine submarines succeeded in sinking 27 Japanese merchant vessels and one submarine, totaling 54,786 tons.  On June 8, the submarine Barb commenced her twelfth patrol, tasked with terrorizing the Sea of Okhotsk using her newly installed 5-inch rocket launchers. Over the following weeks, Skipper Commander Eugene “Luckey” Fluckey executed successful rocket bombardments on Shari, Hokkaido, and targets in Shikuka, Kashiho, and Shiritoru on Karafuto (southern Sakhalin), also employing the submarine's deck guns to destroy 35 sampans in the town of Kaihyo To. Observing Karafuto trains transporting military supplies to ports, Fluckey devised a plan to intercept these trains. Engineman Third Class Billy Hatfield recalled how, as a child, he had placed nuts on railroad ties and watched as the weight of passing trains cracked them between rail and tie. Realizing this principle could be adapted, he suggested rigging an automatic detonator. Fluckey had many volunteers for the mission, including a Japanese POW, and carefully selected Hatfield and seven others, deciding against leading the shore party himself. Just after midnight on July 23, 1945, Fluckey maneuvered Barb to within 950 yards of the Karafuto coast. Led by Lieutenant William Walker, the team launched two rubber rafts at 00:30. Before they left, Fluckey instructed them, “Boys, if you get stuck, head for Siberia, 130 miles north, following the mountain ranges. Good luck.” Upon reaching the shore, the Americans located the tracks and buried a 55-pound scuttling charge and battery beneath the rails, positioning it under a water tower they planned to use as a lookout. As Motor Machinist's Mate First Class John Markuson climbed up, he unexpectedly found he was scaling a sentry tower, causing him to retreat without alerting the sleeping guard. When a train passed, the team dove for cover before resuming their work after it had gone by. Shortly after 01:30, Walker's team signaled their return to Barb, which was now just 600 yards offshore. Fifteen minutes later, while the boats were halfway back, Fluckey heard the rumble of an approaching train. He hoisted a megaphone and urged the crew to “Paddle like the devil, boys!” At 01:47, a 16-car Japanese train struck Hatfield's detonator, resulting in a massive explosion that sent debris soaring 200 feet into the air and reportedly killed 150 Japanese. Minutes later, all eight Americans were safely aboard Barb, which then slipped back into the night, having successfully executed the only amphibious invasion of Japan during World War II. Returning to the main action, Halsey aimed to eliminate the remnants of the Combined Fleet at the heavily fortified Kure Naval Base. Consequently, Task Force 38 began launching the first of 1,363 sorties against ships and airfields in Kyushu, Shikoku, and Honshu, ringing the Inland Sea at 04:40 on July 24. A total of 599 tons of bombs and 1,615 rockets were unleashed over Kure, resulting in the sinking or damaging of 22 warships, which totaled 258,000 tons. Among the affected vessels were the battleships Hyuga, Ise, and Haruna; fleet carriers Amagi and Katsuragi; the escort carrier Kaiyo; heavy cruisers Tone and Aoba; as well as light cruisers Oyodo and Kitakami. In addition, another 53 vessels amounting to 17,000 tons were sunk at various locations, including Hiroshima Bay, Niihama, Bungo Channel, and Kii Channel. At Kobe, the incomplete fleet carrier Aso was also attacked and damaged. American Hellcats and Corsairs effectively swept aside Japanese aerial opposition, shooting down 18 enemy planes while destroying 40 aircraft and damaging another 80 on the ground. Furthermore, around the Inland Sea, 16 locomotives were destroyed and five were damaged, while 20 hangars sustained damage. Three oil tanks were set ablaze at Kure and one at Tano. Additionally, four electric trains and a roundhouse were strafed at Hamamatsu, and various military installations, including barracks, warehouses, power plants, and factories around the airfields, received significant damage. Simultaneously, Rear-Admiral Rawlings' Task Force 37 conducted 257 sorties against targets in Japan and the surrounding offshore areas, sinking the escort carrier Shimane Maru in Shido Bay, along with a number of destroyers, small escorts, and coasters. Meanwhile, Jones' light cruisers swept through the Kii Channel before bombarding the Kushimoto seaplane base and airfields at Cape Shionomisaki during the night. Supporting these efforts, General LeMay dispatched 625 B-29s against seven targets in the Nagoya and Osaka areas, successfully inflicting heavy damage on all of them despite the spotty weather, marking this as the last major attack on the Japanese mainland during the war, as two weeks of cloudy weather ensued. In the early hours of July 25, McCain's aircraft carriers resumed launching strikes against airfields and shipping in the Inland Sea and the Nagoya-Osaka areas. During this operation, they executed a total of 655 sorties, expending 185 tons of bombs and 1,162 rockets, successfully sinking nine ships totaling 8,000 tons and damaging another 35 vessels. The strikes also resulted in the downing of 21 Japanese planes, with an additional 61 aircraft destroyed on the ground and 68 damaged. After refueling on July 27, Halsey's carrier forces moved to launch points located 96 nautical miles off Shikoku. At 04:43 on July 28, they resumed strikes over the Inland Sea, focusing on targets from northern Kyushu to Nagoya, as well as airfields across Honshu along the Sea of Japan. This resulted in McCain flying a total of 1,602 sorties, dropping 605 tons of bombs and expending 2,050 rockets. These attacks sank 27 ships, amounting to 43,000 tons, including the battleships Ise and Haruna, the fleet carrier Amagi, and the Combined Fleet flagship Oyodo. Additionally, 78 vessels totaling 216,000 tons were reported damaged, among them the fleet carrier Katsuragi, heavy cruiser Tone, and light cruiser Kitakami. American pilots reported the destruction of 21 Japanese aircraft in the air and claimed 115 destroyed on the ground across 30 area airfields. They also successfully destroyed 14 locomotives, four oil cars, two roundhouses, three oil tanks, three warehouses, one hangar, and a transformer station. In support of these efforts, Task Force 37 conducted 260 sorties against the eastern Inland Sea, targeting the dockyard at Harima and sinking or severely damaging four corvettes at Maizuru. Meanwhile, the 7th Air Force's 11th and 494th Bombardment Groups carried out a day-long raid on Kure, successfully sinking the heavy cruiser Aoba. By sunset that evening, the Imperial Japanese Navy had effectively ceased to exist, though the cost for the Americans was steep, with losses amounting to 101 planes and 88 men since July 24. As Halsey moved east to target the Osaka-Nagoya area, Shafroth's reinforced Bombardment Group was detached on July 29 to bombard Hamamatsu. During the night, they successfully unloaded 810 16-inch shells, 265 14-inch shells, and 1,035 8-inch shells, damaging the Imperial Government Railway locomotive works, igniting a blaze at the Japanese Musical Instrument Company, and wreaking havoc on infrastructure along the critical Tokaido main line. The following day, McCain's carriers conducted 1,224 sorties against airfields in Osaka, Kobe, Maizuru, and Nagoya, expending 397 tons of bombs and 2,532 rockets. These strikes resulted in the sinking of 20 vessels totaling 6,000 tons and damaging another 56 ships. The pilots also claimed destruction of 115 enemy aircraft on the ground, while inflicting severe damage on numerous industrial targets, including aircraft factories and naval docks in Maizuru. In Miyazu Bay, the destroyer Hatsushino struck an air-dropped naval mine, marking the final loss of 129 Japanese destroyers sunk during the war. That night, seven destroyers advanced deep into Suruga Bay, unleashing 1,100 5-inch shells on Shimizu within seven minutes, successfully destroying or damaging 118 industrial buildings. Typhoon weather would impede the operations of the 3rd Fleet for the next two weeks, as Admiral Nimitz ordered Halsey to steer clear of southern Japan, which was set to become the target of a new and deadly weapon: the atomic bomb. The U.S. Army had begun its project to develop an atomic bomb on August 16, 1942, under the auspices of the Manhattan Project. The project was directed by Major-General Leslie Groves and involved renowned scientists such as Robert Oppenheimer, Enrico Fermi, Niels Bohr, Richard Feynman, and Albert Einstein. Over time, it expanded to include a design center at Los Alamos and two production facilities at Hanford and Clinton. By August 1945, the teams at Los Alamos had successfully designed, developed, and built a gun-type atomic bomb capable of forcing five pounds of uranium-235 against another 17 pounds at high speed, thereby achieving critical mass and releasing immense heat, light, blast, and radiation. The team was also experimenting with an even more powerful device: the plutonium bomb, which utilized an implosion method whereby a sphere of plutonium was compressed by conventional explosives to reach criticality. By early August, scientists had managed to produce enough nuclear material to create only one uranium device, known as Little Boy, and one plutonium bomb, referred to as Fat Man. Each weapon had the potential to annihilate an entire city, and American leaders were prepared to use them if it could compel the Japanese Empire to surrender without necessitating an invasion of Japan. A Targeting Committee led by Groves, consisting of Manhattan Project and Air Force personnel, recommended Hiroshima, Niigata, Kokura, and Nagasaki as primary targets.  Groves' Targeting Committee employed several criteria to select sites for atomic bomb targets. The chosen targets had to possess strategic value to the Japanese and be situated between Tokyo and Nagasaki. Additionally, the target needed to feature a large urban area with a minimum diameter of three miles and must be relatively untouched by previous bombings, ironically spared for potential atomic destruction at a later stage. A crucial condition was that, to the best of their knowledge, these areas should harbor no concentrations of Allied prisoners of war. However, this requirement was challenging to ascertain accurately due to a lack of reliable information about the locations of prisoners. Initially, the committee considered 17 candidates and selected five primary targets: Hiroshima, Yokohama, Kokura, Niigata, and Kyoto. On May 28, they narrowed the list to three: Kyoto, Niigata, and Hiroshima. Hiroshima was significant as it housed Hata's 2nd General Army headquarters and featured a large shipyard, while Niigata was a major industrial city with an important port. Moreover, Kyoto held considerable cultural and religious significance for the Japanese. Secretary of War Stimson, having previously cautioned General Arnold about the humanitarian consequences of targeting cities with incendiary bombings, insisted on removing Kyoto from the list after intense discussions with Groves. On July 21, President Truman concurred with Stimson during their meetings in Potsdam, deciding that Kyoto should be spared. Subsequently, Kokura, known for its large arsenal and ordnance works, replaced Kyoto. Additionally, LeMay's staff reportedly included Nagasaki as an alternate target due to potential weather issues, as it was home to Mitsubishi's arms factories, electric production facilities, ordnance works, and extensive dockyards, making it a valuable target. Meanwhile, a high-level civilian Interim Committee, under Secretary of War Henry Stimson, ultimately advised President Truman on the use of nuclear weapons, reasoning that their deployment would be no worse than the current incendiary bombing campaigns against Japan. The committee also recommended that an atomic bomb be deployed as soon as possible, without warning, to maximize shock value and target a "war plant… surrounded by workers' houses." Following a successful operational test of the experimental plutonium bomb conducted at Trinity on July 16, President Truman authorized General Spaatz to prepare for the bomb drops before August 3. Colonel Paul Tibbets' 509th Composite Group had been specially organized in secret since September 1944 to deliver nuclear weapons, and by June, it had arrived at Tinian under the command of LeMay's 21st Bomber Command. General Twinning replaced LeMay as commander of the 21st on August 1, and he would ultimately issue the direct orders for Tibbets to drop the atomic bomb. The atomic bomb mission had a convoluted command structure. The Joint Chiefs of Staff were largely left out of the chain of command. LeMay was Tibbet's nominal commander; however, Groves still had extensive control over the operation through his deputy Brigadier General Thomas Farrell on Tinian. The 21st Bomber Command would determine when the atomic bomb mission was launched, based on suitable weather conditions. Even at this stage, General of the Air Force Henry "Hap" Arnold and LeMay were still skeptical about the Manhattan Project; they thought B-29 incendiary and high-explosive bombing operations would suffice to end the war soon. LeMay even questioned the 509th CG pilots' ability to conduct the mission; he wanted seasoned Pacific B-29 veteran crews to drop the nuclear cargo. While the Imperial Japanese Army (IJA) and Imperial Japanese Navy (IJN) prepared for an impending invasion, the U.S. Army Air Forces (USAAF) continued its bombing campaign against Japan. The crews of the 509th Composite Group needed to acclimate to the navigational challenges, varied weather conditions, extensive distances, and the geography of the region, all while becoming accustomed to combat situations. Training commenced at Tinian on June 30, with conventional operational missions over Japan beginning on July 20. To prepare for their atomic missions, the crews trained with "pumpkins," which were specially constructed bombs designed to mimic the appearance and weight of nuclear weapons. This allowed them to practice handling and releasing the bombs. They also rehearsed navigational procedures, visual bomb release techniques, and dropping the weapon at an altitude of approximately 30,000 feet. Following the drop, the crew conducted high-speed, radical turns to evade the nuclear effects after detonation. During their first mission, a B-29 from the 509th sought an alternative target in Tokyo. The crew aimed to drop their 10,000-pound "pumpkin" on the Imperial Palace, but unfortunately, they missed their target. Had they succeeded in killing the emperor, it could have significantly impacted Japan's decision-making process, potentially fortifying the Japanese people's resolve to continue the war. Military leaders might have seized control in the aftermath, pushing their forces to keep fighting. Throughout their training, the units of the 21st Bomber Command intentionally avoided targeting Hiroshima, Niigata, Kokura, and Nagasaki during these practice runs. In total, Tibbets directed his crews on numerous combat missions that targeted 28 cities and involved the dropping of 49 "pumpkins." Remarkably, the 509th lost no aircraft during these operations. While Tibbets focused on perfecting the delivery method, the weapons Little Boy and Fat Man were being transported to Tinian. Some weapon assemblies were delivered by C-54 and B-29 aircraft from Kirtland Field near Albuquerque, while the cruiser Indianapolis delivered the fissionable material for Little Boy from San Francisco on July 26. Four days later, the submarine I-58 unexpectedly attacked the Indianapolis with six torpedoes while the cruiser was en route to Guam, successfully sinking it. Of the crew, 850 Americans survived the sinking, and another 316 were belatedly rescued by August 8. By July 31, most of the assembly of Little Boy had been completed. However, a detonation expert would need to emplace the cordite charges to fire the uranium "bullet" through the gun device to the uranium core after take-off, minimizing the risk of an inadvertent nuclear explosion in the event of a B-29 crash. Additionally, the crew carrying the atomic bomb had to exercise caution when descending once Little Boy was armed because the primary radar or a backup barometric fuse could potentially trigger an explosion if the aircraft descended too rapidly with the fuses in place. On August 2, B-29 crews arrived at Tinian with the assemblies for Fat Man. On that same day, General Twinning and President Truman approved the plan to bomb Hiroshima. Two days later, Colonel Tibbets briefed the crews about the mission, confirming that he would pilot the aircraft carrying the atomic bomb. Tibbets' B-29 No. 82, later named Enola Gay, was supported by three weather reconnaissance aircraft that reported conditions at Hiroshima, Kokura, and Nagasaki, as well as two additional B-29s assigned to conduct scientific and photographic missions. At 02:45 on August 6, Enola Gay took off from Tinian, with diversionary attacks by 604 B-29s throughout Japan also scheduled for that day, as coordinated by Twinning. After passing through Iwo Jima at approximately 05:55, Captain William Parsons and Second-Lieutenant Morris Jeppson armed the bomb at 07:30. Throughout the journey, the B-29s ascended slowly, reaching an altitude of over 30,000 feet as they crossed Shikoku and Honshu, finally reaching Hiroshima at 31,060 feet. At 09:12, Tibbets executed his final approach from the 'initial point', flying east-west over the city towards the intersection of the Ota and Motoyasu Rivers. Approximately at 09:15, Little Boy was released, and Enola Gay immediately began its turn away to escape the impending explosion. However, the bomb mistakenly descended towards the Shima Surgical Hospital rather than the intended target, the Aioi Bridge. At 09:16, Little Boy detonated at an altitude of 1,890 feet, just as Tibbets was about six miles away from the blast point. As a result of the atomic blast, the immediate area around the epicenter was heated to an astonishing 1 million degrees Celsius, instantly incinerating or vaporizing all people, animals, buildings, and other items within that zone. Hiroshima police officials estimated that immediate casualties amounted to 71,379 individuals who were either killed or reported missing. In the surrounding areas, the blast effects crushed unreinforced structures before igniting them, resulting in an additional 68,023 wounded, with 19,691 of those injuries classified as serious. Subsequent assessments, potentially incorporating the impacts of radiation sickness or more precise accounting, recorded 30,524 individuals as seriously wounded and 48,606 as slightly wounded. Just two minutes after detonation, a growing mushroom cloud of highly radioactive dust and debris soared to a height of 20,000 feet. Within eight minutes, Tibbets' crew could observe the mushroom cloud from 390 miles away. Ultimately, the dust cloud peaked at approximately 60,000 feet in altitude. Soon after, a thick, black, radioactive rain fell upon the areas beneath the cloud. The center of the city was utterly devastated; over four square miles of the urban center, which encompassed seven square miles in total, were completely flattened, resulting in about 60% of the city's area being destroyed. An additional 0.6 square miles suffered damage, while more than 75% of the city's 90,000 buildings were obliterated. The ensuing fires compounded the devastation, contributing to countless deaths and injuries. Tragically, some American prisoners of war were present in Hiroshima and lost their lives in the explosion. Meanwhile, Enola Gay safely returned to Tinian at 14:58, where Tibbets was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, while the rest of the crew received Distinguished Flying Crosses for their participation in the mission. I would like to take this time to remind you all that this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Please go subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry after that, give my personal channel a look over at The Pacific War Channel at Youtube, it would mean a lot to me. Japan was broken. To be perfectly honest she had been broken long ago. Her leadership had been spending months trying to figure out the best possible way to surrender, while the civilians and troops were suffering horribly. Aerial mining strangled her of food, high explosive and incendiary bombs, killed untold scores of people, and then the Atomic weapons were let loose upon her. It was over.

american starting china washington battle japan training americans british germany san francisco boys german japanese kings army world war ii tokyo military sea philippines korea minister air force pacific secretary indianapolis albert einstein pursuing led clinton nuclear eagle areas southeast asia tone siege allies wing albuquerque davies task force notably hiroshima siberia atomic naruto osaka fleet approximately celsius mustang mito truman badger allied kyoto guam ota okinawa subsequently halsey tragically cg nagasaki mccain generals aerial subsequent paddle meteorologists fat man potsdam widespread typhoons royal navy manhattan project starvation casualty little boys groves joint chiefs kawasaki hatfield mitsubishi yokohama rollo robert oppenheimer authorized hokkaido tano iwo jima hitachi richard feynman nagoya aso los alamos korean peninsula lemay home affairs twinning hanford hata ise akita opium wars kyushu pacific war niels bohr enrico fermi luzon kansai stimson shikoku enola gay shimizu honshu tokaido japanese empire niigata tokyo bay corsairs kagoshima dutch east indies kure yokosuka ube imperial palace wakayama haruna imperial japanese navy distinguished service cross between march bomber command japanese pow hansell tinian hamamatsu akashi tibbets inland sea superfortress sasebo nagato distinguished flying crosses aoba tachibana amagi craig watson hyuga okhotsk admiral nimitz natori operation downfall general curtis lemay bombardment group admiral halsey kamaishi
Supernatural Japan
Hiking Haunted Kansai: A Paranormal Adventure

Supernatural Japan

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2025 17:39


Join us for a thrilling new episode of Supernatural Japan as I hike through the hidden, haunted corners of Kyoto with Japan-based paranormal author Phillip Jackson. Together, we explore eerie locations off the tourist path, including the mysterious Mount Oiwa Shrine, abandoned Momoyama Castle, the Tomb of Emperor Meiji, and even a haunted public restroom. We also stop by the lesser-known Nogi Shrine before wrapping up our supernatural adventure at the quirky Kappa Country Brewery and Kappa Museum. Discover Kyoto's haunted history like never before in this unique blend of folklore, history, and the unexplained.Check out Phil's work:https://www.hiddenpathskyoto.com/SEE the adventure on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GvQ9A0ROnj8&lc=UgwzuXGLyxObzuAapql4AaABAgFollow the podcast: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/supernaturaljapanBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/madformaple.bsky.socialX: https://x.com/MadForMapleFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/supernaturaljapanEmail: supernaturaljapan@gmail.comSupport the podcast (Help fund the creation of new episodes): https://buymeacoffee.com/busankevinYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BusanKevinNEW podcast companion blogs! https://justjapanstuff.com/Website: https://supernaturaljapan.buzzsprout.comSupport the show

Kanpai ! Japon
[DESTINATION #18] Himeji, la petite ville féodale du Kansai

Kanpai ! Japon

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2025 56:42


Himeji est une petite ville de la préfecture de Hyogo située dans la région du Kansai, à 60 kilomètres à l'ouest de Kobe. Son splendide château blanc récemment rénové et célèbre pour être l'un des douze derniers en bois de l'archipel, constitue le lieu le plus fréquenté de cette destination touristique. Marjorie, Kelly et Charly vous détaillent tout ce qu'il faut savoir pour y préparer votre visite. 00:00 Introduction03:33 Présentation de Himeji30:34 Top des visites et activités à faire à Himeji51:18 Inclure Himeji dans son voyage au Japon54:23 Conclusion

JIJI English News-時事通信英語ニュース-
Kansai Electric to Survey Fukui Pref. Site for New Reactor

JIJI English News-時事通信英語ニュース-

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 22, 2025 0:15


Kansai Electric Power Co. said Tuesday it will conduct topographical and geological surveys in the town of Mihama in Fukui Prefecture, central Japan, as part of its plan to build a new nuclear reactor at its Mihama power plant.

Krewe of Japan
Social Media & Perceptions of Japan

Krewe of Japan

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 13, 2025 48:54


Jenn and Doug dive into how social media shapes global perceptions of Japan—both the good and the misleading. From viral content to common myths, they explore what's real, what's exaggerated, and why it matters.------ About the Krewe ------The Krewe of Japan Podcast is a weekly episodic podcast sponsored by the Japan Society of New Orleans. Check them out every Friday afternoon around noon CST on Apple, Google, Spotify, Amazon, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts.  Want to share your experiences with the Krewe? Or perhaps you have ideas for episodes, feedback, comments, or questions? Let the Krewe know by e-mail at kreweofjapanpodcast@gmail.com or on social media (Twitter: @kreweofjapan, Instagram: @kreweofjapanpodcast, Facebook: Krewe of Japan Podcast Page, TikTok: @kreweofjapanpodcast, LinkedIn: Krewe of Japan LinkedIn Page, Blue Sky Social: @kreweofjapan.bsky.social, Threads: @kreweofjapanpodcast & the Krewe of Japan Youtube Channel). Until next time, enjoy!------ Support the Krewe! Offer Links for Affiliates ------Use the referral links below & our promo code from the episode!Support your favorite NFL Team AND podcast! Shop NFLShop to gear up for football season!Zencastr Offer Link - Use my special link to save 30% off your 1st month of any Zencastr paid plan! ------ JSNO Upcoming Events ------Tickets to Kanpai on the Bayou JSNO Event CalendarJoin JSNO Today!

new york amazon spotify tiktok canada learning social media culture google apple spirit japan travel comedy japanese diversity podcasting new orleans temple podcasters broadway tokyo sustainability whatsapp standup ethics controversy sustainable tradition vegan traditional anime stitcher pokemon ninjas godzilla pop culture whiskey misconceptions exchange jokes threads content creators ethical zen buddhism sake expo nintendo switch tariffs alt laughs tsunamis apprentice bill murray manga karaoke samurai sushi moonlight sit down one piece stand up comedy karate dragon ball perceptions hiroshima lost in translation shohei ohtani immersion naruto osaka veganism morals dragon ball z studio ghibli pikachu ramen judo foreigner fukushima kyoto ohtani temples kaiju distilleries shogun castles comedy podcasts sailor moon gundam shrine sumo ghibli tofu imo otaku edo dragon ball super sdgs language learning toho pavilion yokohama gojira sdg study abroad zencastr hokkaido impossible burger shibuya convenience stores jpop geisha distilled fukuoka kimono impossible foods vegan food shinto nippon kanto saitama tokusatsu study tips tendon shrines japanese culture meiji cultural exchange expositions taiko dandadan giant robots chiba vegan lifestyle sentai toei showa shinjuku kyushu sendai soba krewe koto world expo narita kanagawa kansai broadway show tohoku gaijin shikoku japanese food ig reels heisei dogen tokugawa torii japanese history city pop tokyo disney mt fuji ginza sashimi maiko edamame highball pavillion reiwa tatami nihon tempura immersive learning lafcadio hearn kome vegan recipes japanese language haneda kanazawa japan podcast dietary restrictions asakusa usj learn japanese roppongi sachiko onigiri learning japanese kanpai wakayama yoshimura rakugo ibaraki daimyo aomori jlpt 7-11 work abroad shochu japan society japanese film japanese music katsura dashi hyogo eat vegan shamisen matt alt japanese gardens himeji castle ancient japan ig reel japanese society family mart mugi jet program creepy nuts tokushima vegan products kampai chris broad honkaku spirits akiya japanese sake japanese diet osake pure invention nihonshu japan distilled gaikokujin patrick macias real estate japan
VOV - Việt Nam và Thế giới
Tin quốc tế - Việt Nam tiếp tục hành trình ngoạn mục tại Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Nhật Bản

VOV - Việt Nam và Thế giới

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 13, 2025 2:05


VOV1 - Cùng với 157 quốc gia và vùng lãnh thổ khác, Việt Nam đã đi được một nửa chặng đường tại Triển lãm thế giới Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Nhật Bản, với nhiều dấu ấn được khắc ghi trong lòng bạn bè quốc tế.

Krewe of Japan
Shochu 101 ft. Christopher Pellegrini

Krewe of Japan

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 5, 2025 57:21


Think you know Japanese alcohol? Think again. In this episode, the Krewe dives into shochu — Japan's most beloved distilled spirit that somehow still flies under the radar outside the country. We sit down with Christopher Pellegrini, founder of Honkaku Spirits and one of the world's leading voices on shochu, to break it all down. Whether you're new to shochu or looking to deepen your understanding, this episode is a great place to start. Kanpai!Tickets to Kanpai on the Bayou ------ About the Krewe ------The Krewe of Japan Podcast is a weekly episodic podcast sponsored by the Japan Society of New Orleans. Check them out every Friday afternoon around noon CST on Apple, Google, Spotify, Amazon, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts.  Want to share your experiences with the Krewe? Or perhaps you have ideas for episodes, feedback, comments, or questions? Let the Krewe know by e-mail at kreweofjapanpodcast@gmail.com or on social media (Twitter: @kreweofjapan, Instagram: @kreweofjapanpodcast, Facebook: Krewe of Japan Podcast Page, TikTok: @kreweofjapanpodcast, LinkedIn: Krewe of Japan LinkedIn Page, Blue Sky Social: @kreweofjapan.bsky.social, Threads: @kreweofjapanpodcast & the Krewe of Japan Youtube Channel). Until next time, enjoy!------ Support the Krewe! Offer Links for Affiliates ------Use the referral links below & our promo code from the episode!Support your favorite NFL Team AND podcast! Shop NFLShop to gear up for football season!Zencastr Offer Link - Use my special link to save 30% off your 1st month of any Zencastr paid plan! ------ Past Food & Beverage Episodes ------Craving Ramen ft. Shinichi Mine of TabiEats (S4E11)Hungry For Travel ft. Shinichi of TabiEats (S3E15)Sippin' Sake ft. Brian Ashcraft (S1E19)Talking Konbini: Irasshaimase! (S1E3)------ About Christopher & Honkaku Spirits ------Christopher on IGHonkaku SpiritsJapan Distilled Podcast------ JSNO Upcoming Events ------JSNO Event CalendarJoin JSNO Today!

new york amazon spotify tiktok canada learning culture google apple spirit japan travel comedy japanese diversity podcasting new orleans temple podcasters broadway tokyo sustainability standup ethics controversy tickets sustainable tradition vegan traditional anime stitcher pokemon ninjas godzilla pop culture whiskey exchange jokes threads content creators ethical zen buddhism sake expo nintendo switch tariffs alt laughs tsunamis apprentice manga karaoke samurai sushi moonlight sit down one piece stand up comedy karate dragon ball hiroshima shohei ohtani immersion naruto osaka veganism morals dragon ball z studio ghibli pikachu ramen judo foreigner fukushima kyoto ohtani temples kaiju distilleries shogun castles comedy podcasts sailor moon gundam shrine sumo ghibli tofu imo otaku edo dragon ball super sdgs language learning toho pavilion yokohama gojira sdg study abroad zencastr pellegrini hokkaido impossible burger shibuya convenience stores jpop geisha distilled fukuoka kimono impossible foods vegan food shinto nippon kanto saitama tokusatsu study tips tendon shrines japanese culture meiji cultural exchange expositions taiko dandadan chiba vegan lifestyle sentai toei showa shinjuku kyushu sendai soba krewe koto world expo narita kanagawa kansai broadway show tohoku gaijin shikoku japanese food heisei dogen tokugawa torii japanese history tokyo disney city pop mt fuji ginza sashimi maiko edamame pavillion highball reiwa tatami nihon tempura immersive learning kome vegan recipes japanese language haneda japan podcast kanazawa dietary restrictions asakusa usj learn japanese roppongi sachiko onigiri learning japanese kanpai wakayama yoshimura rakugo ibaraki daimyo aomori 7-11 jlpt work abroad shochu japan society japanese film japanese music katsura hyogo shinichi dashi eat vegan shamisen matt alt japanese gardens himeji castle ancient japan japanese society mugi family mart jet program creepy nuts tokushima vegan products kampai chris broad honkaku spirits akiya japanese sake japanese diet osake pure invention japan distilled nihonshu gaikokujin patrick macias real estate japan
Krewe of Japan
Being Vegan in Japan ft. Leonore of itadakihealthy

Krewe of Japan

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 27, 2025 59:43


Thinking of going vegan in Japan? This week, the Krewe chats with Leonore of itadakihealthy about navigating the unique challenges of being vegan in Japan. From hidden ingredients and dining tips to nutrition and travel advice, Leonore shares practical insights for plant-based living in & traveling to the Land of the Rising Sun.------ About the Krewe ------The Krewe of Japan Podcast is a weekly episodic podcast sponsored by the Japan Society of New Orleans. Check them out every Friday afternoon around noon CST on Apple, Google, Spotify, Amazon, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts.  Want to share your experiences with the Krewe? Or perhaps you have ideas for episodes, feedback, comments, or questions? Let the Krewe know by e-mail at kreweofjapanpodcast@gmail.com or on social media (Twitter: @kreweofjapan, Instagram: @kreweofjapanpodcast, Facebook: Krewe of Japan Podcast Page, TikTok: @kreweofjapanpodcast, LinkedIn: Krewe of Japan LinkedIn Page, Blue Sky Social: @kreweofjapan.bsky.social, Threads: @kreweofjapanpodcast & the Krewe of Japan Youtube Channel). Until next time, enjoy!------ Support the Krewe! Offer Links for Affiliates ------Use the referral links below & our promo code from the episode!Support your favorite NFL Team AND podcast! Shop NFLShop to gear up for football season!Zencastr Offer Link - Use my special link to save 30% off your 1st month of any Zencastr paid plan! ------ Past Food & Travel Episodes ------Expo 2025: Japan on the World Stage ft. Sachiko Yoshimura (S6E2)Hanging Out in Hyogo ft. Rob Dyer (S5E14)Checking Out Miyagi ft. Ryotaro Sakurai (Guest Host, William Woods) (S5E5)Explore Matsue ft. Nicholas McCullough (S4E19)Craving Ramen ft. Shinichi Mine of TabiEats (S4E11)Travel Hiroshima ft. Joy Jarman-Walsh (S4E4)Travel Aomori ft. Kay Allen & Megan DeVille (S3E17)Hungry For Travel ft. Shinichi of TabiEats (S3E15)Henro SZN: Shikoku & the 88 Temple Pilgrimage ft. Todd Wassel (S3E12)Border Closures Couldn't Stop These Visas! ft. Rob Dyer & Allan Richarz (S3E11)Natsu Matsuri Mania: Summer Festivals in Japan (S3E3)Off the Beaten Path: Kansai ft. Rob Dyer [Part 2] (S2E12)Off the Beaten Path: Kansai ft. Rob Dyer [Part 1] (S2E11)Japan Travel Destination: Hokkaido ft. Kay Allen (S2E7)Japanese Theme Parks ft. Chris Nilghe of TDR Explorer (S2E4)Talking Konbini: Irasshaimase! (S1E3)Navigating Nippon: Where to Go in Japan? ft. Kay Allen of JNTO (S1E11)Matsue & New Orleans: Sister Cities ft. Dr. Samantha Perez (S1E2)------ About Leonore & itadakihealthy ------Ultimate Vegan Guide for Japan 2025itadakihealthy on IG (ENG)itadakihealthy on IG (JP)itadakihealthy Websiteitadakihealthy Linktree & Resources------ JSNO Upcoming Events ------JSNO Event CalendarJoin JSNO Today!

new york amazon spotify tiktok canada learning culture google apple japan land travel comedy thinking japanese diversity podcasting new orleans temple podcasters broadway tokyo sustainability standup ethics controversy sustainable tradition vegan traditional anime stitcher pokemon ninjas godzilla pop culture exchange jokes threads content creators ethical zen buddhism sake expo nintendo switch tariffs alt laughs tsunamis apprentice manga karaoke samurai sushi moonlight sit down one piece stand up comedy karate dragon ball hiroshima immersion naruto osaka veganism morals dragon ball z studio ghibli pikachu ramen judo foreigner fukushima kyoto temples kaiju shogun castles comedy podcasts sailor moon gundam shrine sumo rising sun ghibli tofu otaku edo dragon ball super sdgs language learning toho pavilion yokohama gojira sdg study abroad zencastr hokkaido world stage impossible burger shibuya convenience stores jpop geisha fukuoka kimono impossible foods vegan food shinto nippon kanto saitama tokusatsu study tips tendon shrines japanese culture meiji cultural exchange expositions taiko dandadan chiba vegan lifestyle sentai toei showa shinjuku kyushu sendai soba koto krewe world expo narita kanagawa kansai broadway show tohoku gaijin shikoku japanese food heisei dogen tokugawa torii japanese history tokyo disney city pop mt fuji sashimi ginza maiko edamame highball pavillion reiwa tatami nihon tempura immersive learning vegan recipes japanese language haneda kanazawa japan podcast dietary restrictions asakusa learn japanese usj roppongi sachiko onigiri learning japanese wakayama yoshimura rakugo ibaraki daimyo aomori 7-11 jlpt work abroad japan society japanese film japanese music katsura shinichi hyogo dashi eat vegan shamisen matt alt japanese gardens himeji castle ancient japan japanese society family mart jet program creepy nuts tokushima vegan products chris broad akiya japanese sake japanese diet pure invention gaikokujin patrick macias real estate japan
Krewe of Japan
Japanese Soccer on the World Stage ft. Dan Orlowitz

Krewe of Japan

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 20, 2025 42:35


In Part 2 of our Japanese soccer series, journalist Dan Orlowitz returns to help us explore how Japan's soccer scene is making waves across the globe! We dive into Samurai Blue's international success, Japanese players shining abroad, and the flow of global talent into the J.League. Plus — how can fans outside Japan actually watch the matches? We've got that covered, too.If you've ever cheered for Japan in the World Cup or wanted to follow J.League stars in Europe, this episode is for you!------ About the Krewe ------The Krewe of Japan Podcast is a weekly episodic podcast sponsored by the Japan Society of New Orleans. Check them out every Friday afternoon around noon CST on Apple, Google, Spotify, Amazon, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts.  Want to share your experiences with the Krewe? Or perhaps you have ideas for episodes, feedback, comments, or questions? Let the Krewe know by e-mail at kreweofjapanpodcast@gmail.com or on social media (Twitter: @kreweofjapan, Instagram: @kreweofjapanpodcast, Facebook: Krewe of Japan Podcast Page, TikTok: @kreweofjapanpodcast, LinkedIn: Krewe of Japan LinkedIn Page, Blue Sky Social: @kreweofjapan.bsky.social, & the Krewe of Japan Youtube Channel). Until next time, enjoy!------ Support the Krewe! Offer Links for Affiliates ------Use the referral links below & our promo code from the episode!Support your favorite NFL Team AND podcast! Shop NFLShop to gear up for football season!Zencastr Offer Link - Use my special link to save 30% off your 1st month of any Zencastr paid plan! ------ Past KOJ Sports-Related Episodes ------Meet the J.League ft. Dan Orlowitz (S6E4)Kendo: The Way of the Sword ft. Alexander Bennett, 7th Dan in Kendo (S4E16)The Life of a Sumotori ft. 3-Time Grand Champion Konishiki Yasokichi (S4E10)Talking Sumo ft. Andrew Freud (S1E8)------ About Dan Orlowitz ------Dan's Socials & WritingsJ-Talk Podcast------ JSNO Upcoming Events ------JSNO Event CalendarJoin JSNO Today!

new york amazon spotify tiktok canada learning culture europe google apple japan germany travel comedy football japanese diversity podcasting new orleans league temple podcasters broadway tokyo world cup sustainability standup controversy sustainable tradition soccer anime stitcher pokemon ninjas sword godzilla pitch pop culture exchange jokes content creators zen hulk buddhism sake expo tariffs keeper manchester united alt manchester city laughs tsunamis apprentice manga honda karaoke samurai sushi moonlight sit down one piece stand up comedy la liga karate dragon ball hiroshima futbol immersion naruto osaka dragon ball z studio ghibli pikachu ramen judo foreigner fukushima kyoto temples kaiju shogun castles comedy podcasts sailor moon gundam shrine dazn sumo antlers ghibli striker otaku edo dragon ball super sdgs language learning kawasaki toho pavilion yokohama gojira nakamura kubo sdg study abroad zencastr euroleague hokkaido world stage jpop geisha fukuoka kimono shinto nippon kanto saitama tokusatsu study tips shrines japanese culture meiji cultural exchange expositions taiko dandadan chiba sentai toei showa shinjuku kyushu sendai koto krewe world expo narita j1 kanagawa j2 kansai broadway show tohoku gaijin shikoku japanese food heisei dogen tokugawa torii japanese history city pop tokyo disney mt fuji sashimi ginza maiko highball pavillion reiwa tatami nihon j league immersive learning japanese language haneda japan podcast kanazawa j3 asakusa learn japanese usj roppongi okazaki sachiko learning japanese wakayama yoshimura rakugo ibaraki daimyo aomori jlpt japan society japanese film japanese music katsura hyogo shamisen kashima matt alt japanese gardens himeji castle ancient japan japanese society jet program creepy nuts tokushima keisuke honda urawa akiya japanese sake kashiwa pure invention gaikokujin patrick macias real estate japan
Music Elixir
From Chameleon to Hustler: A STARTO Musical Journey

Music Elixir

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 18, 2025 46:34


Have you ever been completely blindsided by an artist who suddenly reveals a side you never knew existed? That's exactly what happened when we dove into five different STARTO artists that took us on an unexpected musical journey.Our exploration began with Ae! group's "Chameleon," a jazz-infused track with groovy bass lines and brass elements that had us immediately moving. From impressive guitar solos to saxophone flourishes, this track showcased Ae! group's potential as a pure band rather than just performers.SixTONES' "Barrier" hit us with raspy vocals and aggressive delivery, blending genres from jazz to rap to rock. The forceful punctuation in lines like "You are my girl" creates their distinctive sound, while Kento Nakajima's "Just Kenty" brought pure joy with its bubbly electronic dance beat and retro 80s disco influences. His sweet vocals promising to "share his time" perfectly capture his genuine, accessible persona.WEST's "AHO" took chaos to new heights, transitioning through surf rock, big band sounds, Latin salsa, reggae, and rock ballad elements—all within a single song. This wild blend perfectly encapsulates their Kansai-style humor and creativity, demonstrating why the group works so well together.The biggest surprise came from Ryosuke Yamada. His tracks "RED," "VELVET," and "HUSTLER" left us speechless, revealing a mature, sultry side that contrasts sharply with his typically cute image. "Hustler" particularly impressed us with its swagger as Yamada declared, "I'm a hustler" and "Get to be a legend"—statements that seem increasingly believable given the quality of his work.These songs demonstrate STARTO's commitment to nurturing versatile artists who can explore different musical territories while maintaining their unique identities. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to Japanese music, these tracks offer something fresh and exciting. Subscribe, rate, and review to support and join our musical journey!Ae!Group Instagram X YouTube (Chameleon)SixTONES Instagram X BarrierKento Nakajima Instagram Just KentyWEST X YouTube A.H.O.Ryosuke Yamada Instagram X RED (album)STARTO ENTERTAINMENT (where you can find all their artists info!)Support the showPlease help Music Elixir by rating, reviewing, and sharing the episode. We appreciate your support!Follow us on:TwitterInstagram If have questions, comments, or requests click on our form:Music Elixir FormDJ Panic Blog:OK ASIA

Krewe of Japan
Meet the J.League ft. Dan Orlowitz

Krewe of Japan

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 6, 2025 59:37


The Krewe is kicking off a 2-part series on Japanese soccer! In Part 1, journalist Dan Orlowitz joins the Krewe to break down Japan's domestic soccer scene — the J.League. From league structure and top teams to standout players making waves right now, this episode is your perfect deep dive into the beautiful game, Japan-style. Whether you're new to Japanese soccer or a longtime fan, you'll come away with fresh insights and maybe even a new favorite club! Don't miss Part 2, where we go global with Japan's national teams and international impact!------ About the Krewe ------The Krewe of Japan Podcast is a weekly episodic podcast sponsored by the Japan Society of New Orleans. Check them out every Friday afternoon around noon CST on Apple, Google, Spotify, Amazon, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts.  Want to share your experiences with the Krewe? Or perhaps you have ideas for episodes, feedback, comments, or questions? Let the Krewe know by e-mail at kreweofjapanpodcast@gmail.com or on social media (Twitter: @kreweofjapan, Instagram: @kreweofjapanpodcast, Facebook: Krewe of Japan Podcast Page, TikTok: @kreweofjapanpodcast, LinkedIn: Krewe of Japan LinkedIn Page, Blue Sky Social: @kreweofjapan.bsky.social, & the Krewe of Japan Youtube Channel). Until next time, enjoy!------ Support the Krewe! Offer Links for Affiliates ------Use the referral links below & our promo code from the episode!Support your favorite NFL Team AND podcast! Shop NFLShop to gear up for football season!Zencastr Offer Link - Use my special link to save 30% off your 1st month of any Zencastr paid plan! ------ Past KOJ Sports-Related Episodes ------Kendo: The Way of the Sword ft. Alexander Bennett, 7th Dan in Kendo (S4E16)The Life of a Sumotori ft. 3-Time Grand Champion Konishiki Yasokichi (S4E10)Talking Sumo ft. Andrew Freud (S1E8)------ About Langston Hill ------Dan's Socials & Writings------ JSNO Upcoming Events ------JSNO Event CalendarJoin JSNO Today!

new york amazon spotify tiktok canada learning culture google apple japan travel comedy football japanese diversity podcasting new orleans league temple podcasters broadway tokyo sustainability standup controversy sustainable tradition anime stitcher pokemon ninjas sword godzilla pitch pop culture exchange jokes content creators zen buddhism sake expo tariffs keeper manchester united alt manchester city laughs tsunamis apprentice manga honda karaoke samurai sushi moonlight sit down one piece stand up comedy la liga karate dragon ball hiroshima futbol immersion naruto osaka dragon ball z studio ghibli pikachu ramen judo foreigner fukushima kyoto temples kaiju shogun castles comedy podcasts sailor moon gundam shrine sumo antlers ghibli striker otaku edo dragon ball super sdgs language learning kawasaki toho pavilion yokohama gojira nakamura sdg study abroad zencastr euroleague hokkaido jpop geisha fukuoka kimono shinto nippon kanto saitama tokusatsu study tips shrines japanese culture meiji cultural exchange expositions taiko dandadan chiba sentai toei showa kyushu shinjuku sendai koto krewe world expo narita j1 kanagawa j2 kansai broadway show tohoku gaijin shikoku japanese food heisei dogen tokugawa torii japanese history city pop tokyo disney mt fuji sashimi ginza maiko pavillion highball reiwa tatami nihon j league immersive learning japanese language haneda japan podcast kanazawa j3 asakusa usj learn japanese okazaki roppongi sachiko learning japanese wakayama yoshimura rakugo ibaraki aomori daimyo jlpt japan society japanese film japanese music katsura hyogo shamisen kashima matt alt japanese gardens himeji castle ancient japan japanese society jet program creepy nuts tokushima keisuke honda urawa akiya japanese sake kashiwa pure invention gaikokujin patrick macias real estate japan
Business Travel 360
Linking the Travel Industry | Southwest Leads the Way with New Onboard Portable Charger Rules

Business Travel 360

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2025 15:44


Send us a textLinking the Travel Industry is a business travel podcast where we review the top travel industry stories that are posted on LinkedIn by LinkedIn members.  We curate the top posts and discuss with them with travel industry veterans in a live session with audience members.  You can join the live recording session by visiting BusinessTravel360.comYour Hosts are Riaan van Schoor, Ann Cederhall and Aash ShravahStories covered on this session include -Japan's Kansai airport sets a high standard by not losing a single piece of luggage for 30 continuous years.A DoorDash driver makes a few wrong turns and ends up on the tarmac at Chicago's O'Hare airport.Ghana will try and revive it's failed national airline in a new partnership with the United Arab Emirates.Following on from a rise in in-flight issues with portable charging devices, Southwest Airlines becomes the first US airline to introduce a "must be visible during flight" policy on such devices.Swiss International Air Lines is forced to cut about 1,400 flights between now and October due to pilot shortages.We finally get to see what Steve Singh planned with his acquisition of Direct Travel last year; a combination of Spotnana tech with the TMC's "network for support" in a package they call Avenir.Luxair is taking the EU to court, arguing that smaller airlines like itself were left out of the slot allocations at Milan Linate following the Lufthansa / ITA Airways deal.Extra StoriesYou can subscribe to this podcast by searching 'BusinessTravel360' on your favorite podcast player or visiting BusinessTravel360.comThis podcast was created, edited and distributed by BusinessTravel360.  Be sure to sign up for regular updates at BusinessTravel360.com - Enjoy!Support the show

Japan Real Estate
"Kansai Ben" - Kyoto's Real Estate Property Market

Japan Real Estate

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2025 44:43


Chai Kanda's main room presentation at the Japan Real Estate Summit, spring 2025.

JIJI English News-時事通信英語ニュース-
INTERVIEW: New USJ Head Vows to Promote Kansai Tourism

JIJI English News-時事通信英語ニュース-

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2025 0:12


The new chief of theme park operator Universal Studios Japan LLC is eager to further promote tourism in the Kansai region, western Japan, in cooperation with the Osaka city government.

JIJI news for English Learners-時事通信英語学習ニュース‐
地域の観光、中長期の成長を 村山USJ社長

JIJI news for English Learners-時事通信英語学習ニュース‐

Play Episode Listen Later May 31, 2025 0:33


社長就任を控え、撮影に応じるユニーバーサル・スタジオ・ジャパンを運営するユー・エス・ジェイの村山卓氏、5月27日、大阪市此花区ユニバーサル・スタジオ・ジャパンを運営するユー・エス・ジェイの社長に1日付で就任した村山卓氏は、時事通信などのインタビューに応じた。 The new chief of theme park operator Universal Studios Japan LLC is eager to further promote tourism in the Kansai region, western Japan, in cooperation with the Osaka city government.

Krewe of Japan
Inside Japanese Language Schools ft. Langston Hill

Krewe of Japan

Play Episode Listen Later May 30, 2025 54:42


Ever wondered what it's like to study Japanese in Japan? This week, the Krewe sits down with Langston Hill — administrator at a Tokyo-based language school and Japanese language content creator — to dive into opportunities to learn in Japan via dedicated Japanese language schools. We explore the benefits of language schools, how they compare to traditional academic settings, and Langston's journey as a creator (plus his own textbook series!). Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned learner, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and a few laughs along the way.------ About the Krewe ------The Krewe of Japan Podcast is a weekly episodic podcast sponsored by the Japan Society of New Orleans. Check them out every Friday afternoon around noon CST on Apple, Google, Spotify, Amazon, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts.  Want to share your experiences with the Krewe? Or perhaps you have ideas for episodes, feedback, comments, or questions? Let the Krewe know by e-mail at kreweofjapanpodcast@gmail.com or on social media (Twitter: @kreweofjapan, Instagram: @kreweofjapanpodcast, Facebook: Krewe of Japan Podcast Page, TikTok: @kreweofjapanpodcast, LinkedIn: Krewe of Japan LinkedIn Page, Blue Sky Social: @kreweofjapan.bsky.social, & the Krewe of Japan Youtube Channel). Until next time, enjoy!------ Support the Krewe! Offer Links for Affiliates ------Use the referral links below & our promo code from the episode!Support your favorite NFL Team AND podcast! Shop NFLShop to gear up for football season!Zencastr Offer Link - Use my special link to save 30% off your 1st month of any Zencastr paid plan! ------ Past KOJ Language Learning Episodes ------Japanese Self-Study Strategies ft. Walden Perry (S5E4)Learn the Kansai Dialect ft. Tyson of Nihongo Hongo (S4E14)Heisig Method ft. Dr. James Heisig (S4E5)Prepping for the JLPT ft. Loretta of KemushiCan (S3E16)Language Through Video Games ft. Matt of Game Gengo (S3E4)Pitch Accent (Part 2) ft. Dogen (S2E15)Pitch Accent (Part 1) ft. Dogen (S2E14)Language through Literature ft. Daniel Morales (S2E8)Immersion Learning ft. MattvsJapan (S1E10)Japanese Language Journeys ft. Saeko-Sensei (S1E4)------ About Langston Hill ------Langston aka @TheJapaneseGuy101 on IGThe Japanese Language Manual (2 Book Series - Kindle)The Japanese Language Manual Vol 1 (Paperback)------ JSNO Upcoming Events ------JSNO Event CalendarJoin JSNO Today!

new york amazon spotify tiktok canada learning culture google apple japan travel comedy japanese diversity podcasting new orleans temple podcasters broadway tokyo schools sustainability standup controversy sustainable tradition traditional anime stitcher pokemon ninjas godzilla literature pop culture exchange jokes content creators zen buddhism sake expo nintendo switch tariffs alt laughs tsunamis apprentice manga karaoke samurai sushi moonlight sit down one piece stand up comedy karate dragon ball hiroshima immersion naruto osaka dragon ball z studio ghibli pikachu ramen judo foreigner fukushima kyoto temples kaiju shogun castles comedy podcasts sailor moon gundam shrine sumo ghibli otaku edo dragon ball super sdgs language learning toho pavilion yokohama gojira sdg study abroad zencastr hokkaido shibuya jpop geisha fukuoka kimono shinto nippon kanto saitama tokusatsu study tips shrines japanese culture meiji cultural exchange expositions taiko dandadan chiba sentai toei showa shinjuku kyushu sendai koto krewe world expo narita kanagawa kansai broadway show tohoku gaijin shikoku japanese food heisei dogen tokugawa torii japanese history city pop tokyo disney mt fuji ginza sashimi maiko pavillion highball reiwa tatami nihon immersive learning japanese language haneda japan podcast kanazawa asakusa learn japanese usj roppongi sachiko learning japanese wakayama yoshimura rakugo ibaraki daimyo aomori jlpt work abroad japan society japanese film japanese music katsura hyogo shamisen matt alt japanese gardens himeji castle ancient japan japanese society jet program creepy nuts tokushima chris broad akiya japanese sake pure invention gaikokujin patrick macias real estate japan
Train-ing In Japan
The Kansai Region

Train-ing In Japan

Play Episode Listen Later May 30, 2025 15:31


Train-ing in Japan is back for another season!To kick things off, I'm taking a deep dive into one of Japan's most iconic and culturally rich regions – Kansai. Join me as I explore its geography, cultural importance, and of course, its legendary railway network.As always, I include some of my travel recommendations, like the sacred Kumano Kodo trails and the beautiful Lake Biwako area!Got any feedback or want to leave a comment? Feel free to do so here!Follow the show on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Train-ing In Japan artwork done by Simon Brigham

japan train kansai kansai region
Krewe of Japan
Expo 2025: Japan on the World Stage ft. Sachiko Yoshimura

Krewe of Japan

Play Episode Listen Later May 23, 2025 48:14


The Krewe gets an exclusive inside look at Expo 2025 Osaka with Sachiko Yoshimura, the Director General of Public Relations & Promotion! We dive into the massive planning behind the event, Japan's rich history with World Expos, what to expect at the event, best times to travel, & of course... the story behind the viral mascot, Myaku-Myaku! A must-listen for potential Expo-goers!------ About the Krewe ------The Krewe of Japan Podcast is a weekly episodic podcast sponsored by the Japan Society of New Orleans. Check them out every Friday afternoon around noon CST on Apple, Google, Spotify, Amazon, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts.  Want to share your experiences with the Krewe? Or perhaps you have ideas for episodes, feedback, comments, or questions? Let the Krewe know by e-mail at kreweofjapanpodcast@gmail.com or on social media (Twitter: @kreweofjapan, Instagram: @kreweofjapanpodcast, Facebook: Krewe of Japan Podcast Page, TikTok: @kreweofjapanpodcast, LinkedIn: Krewe of Japan LinkedIn Page, Blue Sky Social: @kreweofjapan.bsky.social, & the Krewe of Japan Youtube Channel). Until next time, enjoy!------ Support the Krewe! Offer Links for Affiliates ------Use the referral links below & our promo code from the episode!Support your favorite NFL Team AND podcast! Shop NFLShop to gear up for football season!Zencastr Offer Link - Use my special link to save 30% off your 1st month of any Zencastr paid plan! ------ Past KOJ Travel Episodes ------Checking Out Miyagi ft. Ryotaro Sakurai (Guest Host, William Woods) (S5E5)Explore Matsue ft. Nicholas McCullough (S4E19)Travel Hiroshima ft. Joy Jarman-Walsh (S4E4)Travel Aomori ft. Kay Allen & Megan DeVille (S3E17)Hungry For Travel ft. Shinichi of TabiEats (S3E15)Henro SZN: Shikoku & the 88 Temple Pilgrimage ft. Todd Wassel (S3E12)Border Closures Couldn't Stop These Visas! ft. Rob Dyer & Allan Richarz (S3E11)Natsu Matsuri Mania: Summer Festivals in Japan (S3E3)Off the Beaten Path: Kansai ft. Rob Dyer [Part 2] (S2E12)Off the Beaten Path: Kansai ft. Rob Dyer [Part 1] (S2E11)Japan Travel Destination: Hokkaido ft. Kay Allen (S2E7)Japanese Theme Parks ft. Chris Nilghe of TDR Explorer (S2E4)Navigating Nippon: Where to Go in Japan? ft. Kay Allen of JNTO (S1E11)Matsue & New Orleans: Sister Cities ft. Dr. Samantha Perez (S1E2)------ About Expo 2025 ------Expo 2025 WebsiteExpo 2025 on IG------ JSNO Upcoming Events ------JSNO Event CalendarJoin JSNO Today!

new york amazon spotify tiktok canada learning culture google apple japan travel comedy japanese diversity podcasting new orleans temple podcasters broadway tokyo sustainability standup controversy sustainable tradition traditional anime stitcher pokemon ninjas godzilla pop culture exchange jokes zen buddhism sake expo nintendo switch tariffs alt laughs tsunamis apprentice manga karaoke samurai sushi moonlight sit down one piece stand up comedy karate dragon ball hiroshima naruto osaka director general dragon ball z studio ghibli pikachu ramen judo foreigner fukushima kyoto temples kaiju shogun castles comedy podcasts sailor moon gundam shrine sumo ghibli otaku edo dragon ball super sdgs language learning toho pavilion yokohama gojira sdg study abroad zencastr hokkaido world stage shibuya jpop geisha fukuoka kimono shinto nippon kanto saitama tokusatsu shrines japanese culture meiji cultural exchange expositions taiko dandadan chiba sentai toei showa shinjuku kyushu sendai krewe koto world expo narita kanagawa kansai broadway show tohoku gaijin shikoku japanese food heisei dogen tokugawa torii japanese history tokyo disney city pop mt fuji ginza sashimi maiko pavillion highball reiwa tatami nihon haneda kanazawa japan podcast asakusa usj roppongi sachiko learning japanese wakayama yoshimura rakugo ibaraki daimyo aomori japan society japanese film japanese music katsura shinichi hyogo shamisen matt alt japanese gardens himeji castle ancient japan japanese society jet program creepy nuts tokushima chris broad akiya japanese sake pure invention gaikokujin patrick macias real estate japan
Krewe of Japan
Rakugo: Comedy on a Cushion ft. Katsura Sunshine

Krewe of Japan

Play Episode Listen Later May 16, 2025 59:10


Season 6 kicks off with laughter, tradition, and international flair! The Krewe sits down with Katsura Sunshine, a Canadian-born rakugo performer bringing Japan's 400-year-old comedic storytelling art to audiences around the world. In this episode, we explore what makes rakugo so unique, how Sunshine became one of the few non-Japanese rakugo-ka, and how this traditional form of entertainment is finding new life on the global stage. Plus, hear about the possibility of a rakugo event in New Orleans this fall!Whether you're a longtime fan of Japanese culture or just curious about this captivating performance style, this episode is the perfect way to kick off Season 6 of the Krewe of Japan Podcast!------ About the Krewe ------The Krewe of Japan Podcast is a weekly episodic podcast sponsored by the Japan Society of New Orleans. Check them out every Friday afternoon around noon CST on Apple, Google, Spotify, Amazon, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts.  Want to share your experiences with the Krewe? Or perhaps you have ideas for episodes, feedback, comments, or questions? Let the Krewe know by e-mail at kreweofjapanpodcast@gmail.com or on social media (Twitter: @kreweofjapan, Instagram: @kreweofjapanpodcast, Facebook: Krewe of Japan Podcast Page, TikTok: @kreweofjapanpodcast, LinkedIn: Krewe of Japan LinkedIn Page, Blue Sky Social: @kreweofjapan.bsky.social, & the Krewe of Japan Youtube Channel). Until next time, enjoy!------ Support the Krewe! Offer Links for Affiliates ------Use the referral links below & our promo code from the episode!Support your favorite NFL Team AND podcast! Shop NFLShop to gear up for football season!Zencastr Offer Link - Use my special link to save 30% off your 1st month of any Zencastr paid plan! ------ Past KOJ Traditional / Historical Japan Episodes ------The Castles of Japan ft. William de Lange (S5E19)Foreign-Born Samurai: William Adams ft. Nathan Ledbetter (Guest Host, Dr. Samantha Perez) (S5E17)Foreign-Born Samurai: Yasuke ft. Nathan Ledbetter (Guest Host, Dr. Samantha Perez) (S5E16)The Thunderous Sounds of Taiko ft. Takumi Kato (加藤 拓三), World Champion Taiko Drummer (S5E13)Yakuza: Past, Present, Future ft. Jake Adelstein, Author of Tokyo Vice (S5E12)The Real World of Geisha ft. Peter Macintosh (S5E7)Inside Japanese Homes & Architecture ft. Azby Brown (S5E6)Kendo: The Way of the Sword ft. Alexander Bennett, 7th Dan in Kendo (S4E16)The Life of a Sumotori ft. 3-Time Grand Champion Konishiki Yasokichi (S4E10)The Intricate Culture of Kimono ft. Rin of Mainichi Kimono (S4E7)Shamisen: Musical Sounds of Traditional Japan ft. Norm Nakamura of Tokyo Lens (S4E1)Henro SZN: Shikoku & the 88 Temple Pilgrimage ft. Todd Wassel (S3E12)Natsu Matsuri Mania: Summer Festivals in Japan (S3E3)Exploring Enka ft. Jerome White Jr aka ジェロ / Jero (S3E1)The Chrysanthemum Throne ft. Dr. Hiromu Nagahara [Part 2] (S2E18)The Chrysanthemum Throne ft. Dr. Hiromu Nagahara [Part 1] (S2E17)Yokai: The Hauntings of Japan ft. Hiroko Yoda & Matt Alt (S2E5)The Age of Lady Samurai ft. Tomoko Kitagawa (S1E12)Talking Sumo ft. Andrew Freud (S1E8)------ About Katsura Sunshine ------Katsura Sunshine on IGRakugo.lol------ JSNO Upcoming Events ------JSNO Event CalendarJoin JSNO Today!

Golf In Japan
LIV in Japan, Mie Magic & Shipping Your Sticks Like a Pro

Golf In Japan

Play Episode Listen Later May 10, 2025 63:53


KC, Pro Joe, and Ryan kick off this week's episode with a deep dive into the Asian Tour's International Series in Japan, featuring LIV stars like Lucas Herbert and more. The spotlight prefecture is Mie—known as a cultural epicenter of Kansai with stunning seaside courses, fresh seafood, historic Ama divers, and some of the most scenic golf in Japan.Need to travel light? The guys break down how to ship your golf clubs and big bags around Japan using the Yamato Kuroneko Ta-Q-Bin service—one of the best-kept secrets for stress-free golf trips.In tour news, “The Crowns” delivers another classic at Nagoya Golf Club, Scottie Scheffler gets back to winning in Texas, and everyone's buzzing about a potential Rory vs. Scottie showdown at the upcoming U.S. Open at Quail Hollow.Plus, Dunlop Clubhouse joins the pod as a partner shop in Shinjuku, offering the latest from Srixon, XXIO, and Cleveland. The boys talk blades vs. forgiveness, grip upgrades, and Ryan shares some swing revelations before jetting off to Maui.Today's Podcast is in association with Titleist:https://golf-in-japan.com/titleist-fitting-experienceMentioned in the podcast:https://golf-in-japan.com/courses/mieDunlop Clubhouse:https://golf-in-japan.com/shops/tokyo/dunlop-club-house-shinjuku

Krewe of Japan
Season 6 超超超大盛 GIGAMAX Preview

Krewe of Japan

Play Episode Listen Later May 9, 2025 15:28


LET THEM COOK! Over the last 5 months, the Krewe has been hard at work cooking up a massive Season 6 line-up. While the main course will begin being served on May 16, how about an appetizer? Just like the carb-loaded instant yakisoba, this preview is CHOU CHOU CHOU Gigamax packed with sneak peeks at what's to come in Season 6. Some snippets include:- Laughing & learning about the world of Rakugo with master storyteller Katsura Sunshine- Prepping for Expo 2025 with Sachiko Yoshimura, Director General of Public Relations & Promotion for Expo 2025- Studying Japanese via language schools with Nihongo enthusiast Langston Hill- Bridging New Orleans & Japan through music with Jazz Trombonist Haruka Kikuchi- Kicking off 2 episodes on Japan's soccer footprint domestically & worldwide with journalist Dan Orlowitz- Exploring vegan cuisine in Japan with Leonore Steffan of ItadakiHealthy- Diving into social media's role in establishing perceptions of Japan - Revisiting Matsue with Sister City Exchange participants Katherine Heller & Wade Trosclair- Brewing up some craft beer with Chris Madere of Baird Brewing & Chris Poel of Shiokaze BrewLab- Restoring some abandoned homes with Akiya enthusiast & YouTuber Anton Wormann of Anton in JapanThis is only HALF of what's to come this season... the 2nd half is top secret! So stay tuned for our season 6 premiere on May 16, 2025 and stick around for the rest of the season to find out what else we have in store on Season 6 of Krewe of Japan Podcast!!------ About the Krewe ------The Krewe of Japan Podcast is a weekly episodic podcast sponsored by the Japan Society of New Orleans. Check them out every Friday afternoon around noon CST on Apple, Google, Spotify, Amazon, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts.  Want to share your experiences with the Krewe? Or perhaps you have ideas for episodes, feedback, comments, or questions? Let the Krewe know by e-mail at kreweofjapanpodcast@gmail.com or on social media (Twitter: @kreweofjapan, Instagram: @kreweofjapanpodcast, Facebook: Krewe of Japan Podcast Page, TikTok: @kreweofjapanpodcast, LinkedIn: Krewe of Japan LinkedIn Page, Blue Sky Social: @kreweofjapan.bsky.social, & the Krewe of Japan Youtube Channel). Until next time, enjoy!------ Support the Krewe! Offer Links for Affiliates ------Use the referral links below & our promo code from the episode!Support your favorite NFL Team AND podcast! Shop NFLShop to gear up for football season!Zencastr Offer Link - Use my special link to save 30% off your 1st month of any Zencastr paid plan! ------ JSNO Upcoming Events ------JSNO Event CalendarJoin JSNO Today!

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RSA Events
Come build the future

RSA Events

Play Episode Listen Later May 1, 2025 76:43


Join us to celebrate the opening of the UK Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai and discover the most exciting ideas and innovations shaping our future.At a time when the world risks becoming fragmented and divided, the World Expo represents a unique opportunity to show what humanity can achieve when we come together.The UK Pavilion at Expo 2025 will act as a vibrant hub of creativity and innovation, showcasing our nation's unique energy, heritage, and make-up. A place where fresh ideas and diverse perspectives are welcomed. A place where exploration and curiosity pave the way for progress. A great place to connect, collaborate, and build the future.At the RSA, the birthplace of the very first World Expo – the Great Exhibition of 1851 – we will gather innovators developing new creative projects and partnerships in both the UK and Japan to inspire us with pathways to a brighter future for people, places, and the planet we all share.Speakers:Sir Peter Bazalgette – Co-chair, Creative Industries CouncilYolanDa Brown OBE DL – Chair, BPISir Loyd Grossman – Chair, the RSAIndy Johar – Architect and Co-founder, 00 and Dark Matter LabsLiana O'Cleirigh, designer, Bentley SystemsDai Fujikura, composerKyoichiro Kawakami, Minister (Economic), Embassy of JapanChair:Nina Nannar, journalist and arts editor for ITV News Donate to the RSA: https://thersa.co/3ZyPOEaBecome an RSA Events sponsor: https://utm.guru/ueembFollow RSA on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thersaorg/Like RSA on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theRSAorg/Listen to RSA Events podcasts: https://bit.ly/35EyQYUJoin our Fellowship: https://www.thersa.org/fellowship/join  

JIJI news for English Learners-時事通信英語学習ニュース‐
三井住友銀、ATM利用不能に 関西など50カ所で

JIJI news for English Learners-時事通信英語学習ニュース‐

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 29, 2025 0:29


三井住友銀行は29日、システム障害が同日午前1時20分ごろから発生し、関西を中心とする一部支店や出張所などのATMが利用できない状態になっていると発表した。 Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp. said Tuesday that a system failure has occurred, making automated teller machines at some branches in the Kansai western Japan region unavailable.

Mercado Abierto
Balance del cierre de la jornada

Mercado Abierto

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2025 7:33


Repasamos a Bankinter, AENA, Iberdrola, Kansai, Cellnex y Oryzon con José Lizán, Gestor de Reto Magnum Sicav en Quadriga Asset Managers.

Mercado Abierto
Balance del cierre de la jornada

Mercado Abierto

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2025 7:33


Repasamos a Bankinter, AENA, Iberdrola, Kansai, Cellnex y Oryzon con José Lizán, Gestor de Reto Magnum Sicav en Quadriga Asset Managers.

Mercado Abierto
Balance del cierre de la jornada

Mercado Abierto

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2025 7:33


Repasamos a Bankinter, AENA, Iberdrola, Kansai, Cellnex y Oryzon con José Lizán, Gestor de Reto Magnum Sicav en Quadriga Asset Managers.

The J-Talk Podcast
Episode 564 - J1 Matchday 11

The J-Talk Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 22, 2025 98:40


Alan Gibson returned to the podcast, to help Jonny and Ben review goings-on from last midweek, and how the four Kansai clubs are faring after 11 rounds. We chat about the three J1 games - including Steve Holland's ouster at Yokohama F.Marinos after their home loss to Shimizu - and the conclusion of the 2nd round of the 1st round of the Levain Cup last Wednesday (to 18:30), before moving on to Matchday 11, beginning with our new leaders Kyoto, Kobe's fruitful week, and draws for both Osaka sides (to 1:05:55). Then in Part 2 Jonny and Ben round up the other six games, and look ahead to games coming up in Matchday 12.

SBS Japanese - SBSの日本語放送
Shaanai(The Road to Osaka-ben Master 3) - しゃーない(大阪弁マスターへの道 3)

SBS Japanese - SBSの日本語放送

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 17, 2025 4:32


EXPO2025 OSAKA, KANSAI, JAPAN is taking place this year. To enjoy the event fully, let's take this opportunity to learn Osaka dialect from an Osaka-ben native speaker Kate Onomichi from SBS Japanese Melbourne team! - 4月13日に開幕した大阪・関西万博。この機会にSBS日本語放送メルボルンチームの大阪弁ネイティヴ、尾道ケイト先生から大阪弁を学んでみましょう!

Music Elixir
STARTO Talent Showcase: From Sweet Ballads to Explosive Anthems

Music Elixir

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 9, 2025 51:52


Ready for a musical journey through the diverse world of STARTO talent? From the heart-fluttering sweetness of Travis Japan's "Say I Do" to the intense, passionate declaration in SixTONES' "BARRIER," each track reveals a unique artistic identity worth exploring.The episode marks a joyful return to our roots, as we've long championed these artists since our very first podcast focusing on Arashi. Now, with streaming services making music more accessible globally, we're thrilled to highlight how groups like timelesz are reaching significant milestones—over 5 million streams and 1.3 million monthly listeners on Spotify already!We couldn't contain our excitement discussing Hey! Say! JUMP's "SUPER CRUISIN'" with its perfect blend of pop, hip-hop, and rock elements, or WEST's explosively fun "WEST SIDE SOUL!" that captures their vibrant Kansai spirit. Each song creates a distinct atmosphere—from romantic cherry blossom picnics to high-energy arena parties—while showcasing the incredible vocal talents and production that make STARTO artists stand out.What makes this episode particularly special is how these five tracks form a perfect playlist progression, starting gentle, building in intensity, adding an anthemic energy, cruising along, and ending with an all-out celebration. Whether a longtime fan or new to these artists, you'll discover something to love among these diverse musical offerings.Travis Japan: Instagram X YouTube Say I Do (Spotify) #HollywoodTJ Dream Episode  Electrifying New York Performance EpisodeSixTONES: Instagram X YouTube BARRIER (video)timelesz: Instagram  X  YouTube  Rock this Party (Spotify)Hey! Say! JUMP: Instagram  X  YouTube  SUPER CRUISIN (Spotify) WEST: X  YouTube  WEST SIDE SOUL (video)STARTO ENTSupport the showPlease help Music Elixir by rating, reviewing, and sharing the episode. We appreciate your support!Follow us on:TwitterInstagram If have questions, comments, or requests click on our form:Music Elixir FormDJ Panic Blog:OK ASIA

SBS Japanese - SBSの日本語放送
Nanbo?(The Road to Osaka-ben Master 2) - なんぼ?(大阪弁マスターへの道 2)

SBS Japanese - SBSの日本語放送

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 8, 2025 4:08


EXPO2025 OSAKA, KANSAI, JAPAN is taking place this year. To enjoy the event fully, let's take this opportunity to learn Osaka dialect from an Osaka-ben native speaker Kate Onomichi from SBS Japanese Melbourne team! - 開幕が週末に迫った大阪・関西万博。開催時期に合わせ、SBS日本語放送メルボルンチームの大阪弁ネイティヴ、尾道ケイト先生から大阪弁を学んでみましょう!

Japanese with K
#172 Yamatai-koku: Japan's Ancient Mystery – Kyushu or Kansai? / 日本のはじまりは九州か関西か

Japanese with K

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 7, 2025 23:02


※スクリプトは⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Japanese with K⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ , Patreon patreon.com/user?u=80021678 にあります。Paid members will have access to English subtitles and Japanese scripts in two versions: one with hiragana and one without.In order to sustain this endeavor,Kei relies on support from all of you. If you enjoy this podcast, please consider supporting Kei!

Gente Viajera
Expo Osaka 2025: la isla de los sueños tecnológicos

Gente Viajera

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 6, 2025 11:54


El domingo 13 de abril se inaugura la Exposición Universal de Osaka, en Japón. A las puertas de tan importante cita tecnológica, nos asomamos a esta Expo y visitamos Kansai, la región donde se encuentra Osaka.

Cat with Beard from JAPAN
#147 - Kansai: Explore the Secrets of Kinki!

Cat with Beard from JAPAN

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 17, 2025 30:55


Is Kansai really Kinki? We check out the amazing Kansai area in Japan aka Kinki, known for its deep culture, tasty food, and special way of speaking. From Kyoto’s beautiful temples to Osaka’s lively food culture, not to mention Nara’s old ruins and Kobe's scenic harbor, we’re taking you on a trip through Japan's core. So just lean back and find out about the beauty of Kansai, a place that will tug at your heartstrings and make you want to come back. Check out our social media below

SBS Japanese - SBSの日本語放送
Ookini!(The Road to Osaka-ben Master 1) - おおきに!(大阪弁マスターへの道 1)

SBS Japanese - SBSの日本語放送

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 12, 2025 4:03


EXPO2025 OSAKA, KANSAI, JAPAN is taking place this year. To enjoy the event fully, let's take this opportunity to learn Osaka dialect from an Osaka-ben native speaker Kate Onomichi from SBS Japanese Melbourne team! - 開幕が1カ月後に迫った大阪・関西万博。開催時期に合わせ、この機会にSBS日本語放送メルボルンチームの大阪弁ネイティヴ、尾道ケイト先生から大阪弁を学んでみましょう!

The Unfinished Print
Karen Kunc : Printmaker - Concepts of Distance

The Unfinished Print

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 10, 2025 57:32


Mokuhanga can be a standalone medium or combined with other artistic practices, offering endless opportunities for experimentation and creative exploration. In this episode of The Unfinished Print: A Mokuhanga Podcast, I speak with printmaker Karen Kunc, who has worked with mokuhanga for many years. She integrates it into her broader printmaking practice, which includes book arts, mixed media, letterpress, Western woodblock, and more. We discuss her early encounters with mokuhanga, her travels to Japan, and her experience printing with Akira Kurosaki. Karen also shares how nature influences her work, the importance of taking creative risks, and her perspective on mokuhanga today. Plus, we talk about her own Constellation Studios and its role in her artistic journey. Please follow The Unfinished Print and my own mokuhanga work on Instagram @andrezadoroznyprints or email me at theunfinishedprint@gmail.com Notes: may contain a hyperlink. Simply click on the highlighted word or phrase. Artists works follow after the note if available. Pieces are mokuhanga unless otherwise noted. Dimensions are given if known. Print publishers are given if known. Karen Kunc - website, Instagram  Aqua Alta - 26" x 72", woodcut Jocelyn Art Museum - is a fine arts museum located in Omaha, Nebraska, USA. The museum was opened in 1931. More info, here. The Agony and The Ecstasy   - is a biographical novel by the American author Irving Stone (1903-1989). It goes into detail of the life of Michelangelo Buonarroti (1475-1564). The novel was published in 1961.  Awaji Island - located in Japan's Seto Inland Sea, has a rich history dating back to ancient times. According to the Kojiki(Records of Ancient Matters), it is considered the birthplace of Japan—the first island created by the gods Izanagi and Izanami in Japanese mythology. Historically, Awaji played a vital role as a strategic hub for maritime trade and travel, connecting the Kansai region with Shikoku and Kyushu. During the Edo period, it was governed as part of the Tokushima Domain under the Hachisuka clan. Today, Awaji is renowned for its natural beauty, traditional industries such as Awaji Ningyō Jōruri (puppet theater), and its connection to mainland Japan via the Akashi Kaikyō Bridge—the world's longest suspension bridge. Kyoto Seika University - located in Kyoto, Japan, is a leading private institution specializing in art and design education. It offers undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as painting, sculpture, graphic design, and manga. Known for its rigorous curriculum, Kyoto Seika emphasizes both practical skills and creative expression. With a strong tradition of nurturing talented artists and designers, the university fosters a dynamic environment that encourages innovation and artistic growth. Akira Kurosaki (1937-2019) - was one of the most influential woodblock print artists of the modern era. His work, while seemingly abstract, moved people with its vibrant colour and powerful composition. He was a teacher and invented the “Disc Baren,” which is a great baren to begin your mokuhanga journey with. At the 2021 Mokuhanga Conference in Nara, Japan there was a tribute exhibit of his life works. Azusa Gallery has a nice selection of his work, here. Aurora - 13" x 17" colour woodcut (1982)  ukiyo-e - is a multi colour woodblock print generally associated with the Edo Period (1603-1867) of Japan. What began in the 17th Century as prints of only a few colours, evolved into an elaborate system of production and technique into the Meiji Period (1868-1912). With the advent of photography and other forms of printmaking, ukiyo-e as we know it today, ceased production by the late 19th Century.  Utagawa Kuniteru (1808-1876) Sumo Wrestler (1861) Peter Max - is an American artist who is associated with the American Pop Art movement of the 1950's and 1960's. He used vibrant colours in his work. Max's art was seen on posters, paintings, even running shoes. More info, here.  Outer Spectrum - serigraph 8.75" x 12.5" (1978)  Mary Brodbeck - is a mokuhanga printmaker, based in Kalamazoo, Michigan. She has been producing mokuhanga for nearly 25 years. Her work refelcts nature, and the power it contains. Mary's interview with The Unfinished Print can be found, here.  GAZE - 10" x 14"  MI Lab - is a mokuhanga artists residency located in Awatabe Town, Echizen City, Fukui, Japan.  More info can be found, here.  Center For The Science of Human Endeavor - also known in Japanese as 一般社団法人産業人文学研究所  is a program to "research, study, design for a life style in the 21st Century," and is associated with MI Lab.  There is a brick and mortar gallery located in Shinbashi, Tōkyō.  McClains Woodblock Print Supply Co.  - based in Portland, Oregon, McClain's is the go-to supplier of woodblock print tools in the United States. Their website can be found here. The Unfinished Print: A Mokuhanga Podcast interview with Daniel Jasa of McClain's can be found here. nishinouchi paper - is a Japanese washi which is produced in Nishinouchi Kami no Sato, located in Hitachiomiya City, Ibaraki, Japan. More info can be found, here.  The Japanese Paper Place- is a Toronto based Japanese paper store servicing the mokuhanga and arts community in Toronto and around the world for many years. Nancy Jacobi of The JPP and her interview with The Unfinished Print: A Mokuhanga Podcast can be found,  here. Constellation Studios - is the studio of Karen Kunc located in Lincoln, Nebraska, USA. More info can be found, here.  Penland School of Craft - is a school which welcomes students from all over the world. Located in North Carolina, the school offers eight-week workshops in many different types of mediums. More info, here.  Anderson Ranch Arts Center - since the 1960s, Anderson Ranch Arts Center, located in Colorado, has been a beacon for the arts in the United States. The Ranch offers master classes, workshops, artist-in-residence programs, and more. For additional information, please click here. Virginia Center for the Creative Arts (VCCA) - founded in 1971, is located at Mt. San Angelo in Amherst, Virginia. It provides residency opportunities for artists and writers across various disciplines, offering a supportive environment for creative work. More info can be found, here.  Wayne Crothers - is an Australian mokuhanga printmaker, curator and artist who lives in Japan.  Patricia Olynyk - is a Canadian multimedia artist, photographer,  who resides in The United States. Patricia's work explores the way " social systems and institutional structures shape our understanding of our place in the world." More information can be found, here.  Oculus - digital sculpture  Ralph Kiggell (1960-2022) -  was one of the most important mokuhanga practitioners. Originally from England, Ralph lived and worked in Thailand. Ralph pushed the boundaries of mokuhanga with extremely large pieces, jigsaw carving, and by using fantastic colour. He also worked with the International Mokuhanga Conference to promote mokuhanga around the world. He will be greatly missed. Ralph's work can be found, here. His obituary in The Guardian can be found, here. His interview with The Unfinished Print: A Mokuhanga Podcast can be found, here. Park Winter Tuula Moilanen - is a Finnish mokuhanga printmaker and painter based in Finland. She lived and studied in Kyōto from 1989 to 2012, where she learned her printmaking at Kyōto Seika University and from printmaker Akira Kurosaki (1937–2019). Her work can be found here. Her interview with The Unfinished Print: A Mokuhanga Podcast can be found here. Daizuyama - 23cm x 34cm (2009)  Kari Laitinen - is a Finnish artist and printmaker based in Finland. His works explore colour and dimension. More information can be found, here. He helped write, with Tuula Moilanen, the book Woodblock Printmaking with Oil-based Inks and the Japanese Watercolour Woodcut. It was published in 1999. Dimensions VII - 48cm x 76cm (2017) Venice Printmaking Studio - is a printmaking residency located in Murano, Italy. Malaspina Printmakers - is a printmaking residency located in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. MNmore info, here.  Annu Vertanen - is a Finnish printmaker who has used mokuhanga in her work. Annu is currently a professor at the Academy of Fine Arts, University of the Arts Helsinki.  Aspect Guanlan I - 95cm x 65cm  © Popular Wheat Productions Opening and closing musical credit - Bruce Springsteen, Atlantic City (1982). From the album Nebraska (Columbia Records) logo designed and produced by Douglas Batchelor and André Zadorozny  Disclaimer: Please do not reproduce or use anything from this podcast without shooting me an email and getting my express written or verbal consent. I'm friendly :)  Слава Українi If you find any issue with something in the show notes please let me know. ***The opinions expressed by guests in The Unfinished Print podcast are not necessarily those of André Zadorozny and of Popular Wheat Productions.***          

Uncanny Japan - Exploring Japanese Myths, Folktales, Superstitions, History and Language

Ad-free versions of episodes are available to Patrons. Thank you for your support and helping us pay for rent and recent hospital bills. We couldn't do this without you! --Rich, the sound guy. In this episode of Uncanny Japan, Thersa Matsuura explores the culinary rivalry between Kanto (Tokyo region) and Kansai (Osaka/Kyoto area). Discover the fascinating differences in flavors, preparation methods, and cultural attitudes that shape Japan's regional cuisines - from miso soup bases to tempura batters, unagi cutting techniques, and the contrasting takes on beloved dishes like okonomiyaki and tamagoyaki. Click here for Adventure Travel inspiration from our friends at Explore Worldwide. Don't Just Travel, Explore. [This description contains Amazon affiliate links. If you click on a link and make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.] Uncanny Japan is author Thersa Matsuura. Check out her books including The Book of Japanese Folklore by clicking on the Amazon link.  If you'd like to help support the podcast and have a bedtime story read to you monthly, please visit Patreon. Discord: https://discord.gg/XdMZTzmyUb Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thersamatsuura Website: https://www.uncannyjapan.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UncannyJapan Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/uncannyjapan.bsky.social Mastodon: https://famichiki.jp/@UncannyJapan Twitter: https://twitter.com/UncannyJapan Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uncannyjapan/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncannyjapan/ Books on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Thersa-Matsuura/e/B002CWZ73Y/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1500180689&sr=8-1 Buy Me a Coffee (one-time contribution): https://buymeacoffee.com/uncannyjapan

The Mindful Midlife Crisis
Episode 189--"Let Me Show You My City": 大阪の秋 (Osaka No Aki)

The Mindful Midlife Crisis

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 5, 2025 69:38


Text your questions, comments, & topic suggestions here! You can also email billy@mindfulmidlifecrisis.com.In this personal episode, I reflect on my time in Osaka and the unforgettable connection with Aki—an adventurous, sharp-witted local who made Japan special. From our wild food tour to izakayas, maid cafés, and teamLab Botanical Gardens, she showed me her city like no one else. More than that, she taught me a profound lesson on presence, joy, and embracing life's challenges. This week's Five Essential Questions will help you reflect on the relationships that have shaped you—what they've taught you and how to nurture them.Key Talking Points:Japan on the Bucket List: The long-awaited adventure and why Osaka became a defining stop on my journey.Meeting Aki: How a bold, hilarious, blue-haired tour guide turned into a lifelong friend.Osaka's Culture & Energy: Why the Kansai region feels completely different from Tokyo.The Magic of Shared Experiences: From izakayas to Maidreamin to glowing neon nights at teamLab Botanical Gardens, Aki provided me with some of my favorite memories of Japan.Aki's Legacy: The lessons she left behind and why sharing stories keeps memories alive.All episodes are available at www.mindfulmidlifecrisis.com.Need a place to start? Check out our Fan Faves Page!Join the Mindful Midlife Community Newsletter! Thank you for listening to The Mindful Midlife Crisis!If this episode resonates with you, please share it with your family and friends.This Week's Sponsors:The B.E.L.L. Center: Expand your understanding of mindfulness and breathwork with their MindHacking Meditation Course.Kari Schwear: Explore what drives your habits, refocus what truly matters, and develop daily tools to start moving forward with Decide30.Genie Love: Schedule your FREE consultation to empower your neurodivergent strengths!Brian Gallagher: Download your Solo Business Blueprint and escape the 9-5 grind!This Week's Affiliates:Buzzsprout:  Launch your podcast today and get $20 worth of credit towards your account!Fiverr:  Get your next project done brilliantly by skilled professionals and earn 10% off your first purchase.Systeme.IO:  Simplify your online business.Riverside.fm:  Record your podcast in studio-quality audio and video.Follow us!Instagram:  @mindful_midlife_crisisFacebook: The Mindful Midlife Crisis PodcastLinkedIn: Billy LahrPlease leave us a 5-Star Review!Support the show

The J-Talk Podcast
Episode 554 - J1 Season Previews Part 4

The J-Talk Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 11, 2025 127:38


We wrap up our top flight previews with the final five teams, and a heavy Kansai focus, as Alan Gibson guests in Part 1 to chat about his long weekend in the Tokyo area - including the Super Cup - and then help us preview defending champions Kobe (to 38:25) and Gamba Osaka (to 1:03:55). Then in Part 2 Jonny and Ben discuss Cerezo Osaka (to 1:22:35), Kyoto (to 1:41:35) and Nagoya. Follow Alan on X/Twitter and Bluesky.

Sayuri Saying Everyday-Japanese Podcast
255. 【会話】Do Osakans Really Eat Okonomiyaki All the Time? – Chat with Miku | 大阪人とお好み焼き

Sayuri Saying Everyday-Japanese Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 3, 2025 15:03


In this episode, we welcome back Miku from Miku Real Japanese to dive into the real okonomiyaki culture in Osaka. Do locals eat it every week, or is that just a stereotype? Miku shares her personal experiences growing up in Osaka, talks about Kansai vs. Hiroshima styles, and even introduces us to modan-yaki and takosen! Perfect for Japanese learners curious about local food culture and everyday life in Japan. Check out our transcripts, video podcasts, and Japanese learning resources at⁠⁠: ⁠https://sayurisaying.com/do-osakans-eat-okonomiyaki/ Your support helps keep this podcast alive and means a lot to me. Thank you for considering! ⁠⁠⁠https://sayurisaying.com/#/portal/support⁠

Life Examined
The Japanese art of happiness: From ikigai, to ritual, to embracing old age

Life Examined

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 29, 2024 53:59


*This episode originally aired on July 23, 2023. Navigating the relentless pace of the modern world often means being bombarded by daily distractions, sleep deprived and perhaps a little stressed or anxious. It’s not easy. When it comes to looking for a moment of reflection and recalibration, it’s worthwhile to reexamine some of the philosophies and practices rooted in one of the world’s oldest cultures: Japan.  Jonathan Bastian talks with Pico Iyer, travel writer and author of “The Half Known Life: In Search of Paradise.” Born and raised in England, Iyer spent much of his younger adult life in New York and California before moving to Japan in 1992. From his first day there, Iyer recalls, he felt, “a mysterious sense of recognition … as soon as I spent my first morning in Japan walking around near the airport in Tokyo — not, obviously, an interesting or romantic place — I felt, ‘I know this place and this place knows me.’” More: In search of paradise — and why travel writer Pico Iyer says it may be within Since then, Iyer has discovered that the more time he spends there, the better. Perhaps that’s because, at 66, he’s aged into a society in which being “older” is also culturally revered and embraced.  “Maybe the real reason I wanted to move was [because] it's a very mature, seasoned old society. For me, going to Japan was like seeking out an elder,” Iyer says. “I've reached the age when I really want to learn how to live and what it all means, and I felt that Japan could offer that as well as anywhere.” The Eastern philosophy that dominates Japanese cultural traditions centers itself on a strong sense of community. In contrast to the US, where individualism is revered, Japanese society is generally collectivistic, with people often viewing themselves and others as members of cooperative groups or units. Accordingly, older members of Japanese society are respected for their wisdom and maturity.   More: The external and internal pilgrimage: Author Pico Iyer on the purpose of journeying in modern times Iyer also discusses the concept of impermanence, a tenet of Buddhist philosophy that Iyer says is “deeply woven into every fabric” of Japanese society.   “Every April, everyone races out to see the cherry blossoms, precisely because they last for only ten days. And if they were to last, even for a month, there'd be none of the excitement and none of the sense of grabbing the moment,” he says. “[It’s a] Japanese truth, which is a universal truth: Nothing lasts forever.”  Pico Iyer, pictured here, explains that in Japanese culture, “the fact that nothing lasts is a reason that everything matters, every moment matters, and one can't take anything for granted.” Photo courtesy of Derek Shapton.  More: Spiritual writer Pico Iyer says now is the time confront who we really are Social and medical anthropologist Iza Kavedžija has done extensive research and fieldwork with two distinct groups of people in the Kansai region of Japan. Her primary focus, and the subject of her book “Making Meaningful Lives: Tales from an Aging Japan,” has been examining how older members of Japanese society are cared for by the community and by one another.  In Osaka, Kavedžija observed that in order to maintain social links and ties, older people have created a social network — a sort of social safety net that they need in order to live well. Surprisingly, it's Japan's older generation that’s “driving societal changes,” explains Kavedžija. “We don't tend to think of older people as those who are driving the processes of social change and crafting new social relations, but that's exactly what they were doing.” Another practice Kavedžija observed in her research, and which in recent years has gained international traction as a lifestyle philosophy, is that of ikigai, which translates to “reason for being.” “Ikigai can sometimes be quite a modest pursuit, some small hobby or small set of interests, or even a form of attention,” explains Kavedžija.  “Being able to observe the birds in the garden through the window, and being able to do that every day, and that simply gets you out of bed, can be seen as a form of ikigai. … It's looking out for those small things in life that kind of get you going.” Kavedžija says Japanese philosophy is very much guided by the principles of humility, gratitude, and community. What struck her, particularly in her research with the elderly, was the cultivation of broad networks of care.  “Even among fairly old people in their 80s and 90s, they themselves were not only just recipients of care, but were very caring and involved in numerous caring relationships, which would scaffold other people's lives,” she says. While researching Japanese society, Iza Kavedžija, pictured here, observed that, “when disposing of things, people would often kind of thank things for their service, or try to find a good home for an item, passing it on to someone who needs it. And this way of being in the world is quite helpful in a society where there's a lot of objects, and there's a lot of consumerism.” Delve deeper into life, philosophy, and what makes us human by joining the Life Examined discussion group on Facebook.

Real-Life Japan
#125 日本で一番寒い場所、北海道に引っ越してから変わったこと | Things have changed since moving to Hokkaido, the coldest place in Japan

Real-Life Japan

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 20, 2024 27:05


#125 ホストの2人は元々関西に長年住んだ経験があり、なおやは2年前、アネちゃんは3年前に日本で一番寒い場所、北海道に引っ越して来ました。全く異なる気候、暮らし方、周りの環境のおかげで、以前と比べて、二人の考え方やライフスタイルはだんだん変わってきています。今回は、ホスト2人が自身の経験から、北海道の暮らしならではの新しい価値観を紹介しました。 Our two hosts originally lived in Kansai (western Japan) for many years, and each moved to Hokkaido, the coldest place in Japan, last two to three years ago. The completely different climate, living culture, and environment have gradually changed their way of thinking and lifestyles compared to the past. In this episode, they shared their experiences and introduced new values unique to life in Hokkaido. ↓↓番組についての感想や話してほしいトピックがあれば、こちらまで↓↓ Email: ernestnaoya1994@gmail.com ↑↑ Share your thoughts and request to us↑↑ 個人SNS / Personal Social Media AC Ernest's Instagram: @ernest_mkc Naoya's Instagram: @japanese_teacher_n

Music Elixir
Aぇ! group Vibrant Arena Tour Debut Experience

Music Elixir

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 18, 2024 48:56


Picture this: the thrill of an arena tour debut in Osaka, your favorite music group on stage, and the air buzzing with anticipation. We recount the exhilarating journey of acquiring that elusive overseas DVD, capturing the raw energy of a Kansai hometown performance from Aぇ! group. Connections to each band member shine through, revealing the charm of their unique backgrounds and roles. This debut isn't just a concert; it's a celebration of potential and the power of music that brings us together, especially when the mysterious allure of espionage-like tunes sets the scene.Fashion-forward moments and charismatic introductions take center stage as we explore the group's captivating style. Imagine outfits reminiscent of classic Chanel, sultry performances with red lipstick highlights, and unforgettable choreography like the hip-swaying party train. Richard's bold yellow braids and Masaka's rock star "Bread Panda" ensemble add playful twists to the show. From Ken Chan's adorable preschooler skit to the iconic "Party-Aholic" number, these performances are a delightful showcase of creativity and flair that keep fans on their toes.Get ready for a concert experience filled with humor, spontaneity, and the dynamic spirit of Kansai. From Richard's saxophone skills to Seiya's impromptu burpees, the performers bring a playful energy that captivates the audience. Unique wardrobe choices, like cowboy and skater outfits, enhance the lively atmosphere, while familiar tunes evoke a sense of connection. As we wrap up the episode, we reflect on the diversity of the audience and the electrifying post-concert emotions, ensuring this is an event we'll be buzzing about long after the curtain falls.Aぇ! group (Ae! group) info:InstagramXOfficial (STARTO ENT)YouTubeTikTokSupport the showPlease help Music Elixir by rating, reviewing, and sharing the episode. We appreciate your support!Follow us on:TwitterInstagram If have questions, comments, or requests click on our form:Music Elixir FormDJ Panic Blog:OK ASIA

Alles auf Aktien
Das magische Triple-Allzeithoch und lukrative Zukunftsideen

Alles auf Aktien

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 26, 2024 18:54


In der heutigen Folge von „Alles auf Aktien“ sprechen die Finanzjournalisten Anja Ettel und Laurin Meyer über den neuen Lieblings-Minister der amerikanischen Börse, die nächste Wendung bei der Commerzbank und eine geplatzte Hoffnung im Kampf gegen Alzheimer. Außerdem geht es um Bitcoin, Amazon, Nvidia, Tesla, Hims&Hers, Cassava, Super Micro Computer, Zoom, Commerzbank, Unicredit, Macy's, Walmart, Target, PDD Holdings, Adidas, Nike, Tiffany&Co, Movado Group, Hugo Boss, Novo Nordisk, Eli Lilly, Constellation Energy, Curtiss, Paladin, Kansai, Uber, Lyft, Alphabet, AbbVie, Pfizer, Merck, Daiichi Sankyo, Cooper Companies, Xpeng, Harmonic Drive und Arm. Wir freuen uns an Feedback über aaa@welt.de. Ab sofort gibt es noch mehr "Alles auf Aktien" bei WELTplus und Apple Podcasts – inklusive aller Artikel der Hosts und AAA-Newsletter.[ Hier bei WELT.](https://www.welt.de/podcasts/alles-auf-aktien/plus247399208/Boersen-Podcast-AAA-Bonus-Folgen-Jede-Woche-noch-mehr-Antworten-auf-Eure-Boersen-Fragen.html.) [Hier] (https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6zxjyJpTMunyYCY6F7vHK1?si=8f6cTnkEQnmSrlMU8Vo6uQ) findest Du die Samstagsfolgen Klassiker-Playlist auf Spotify! Disclaimer: Die im Podcast besprochenen Aktien und Fonds stellen keine spezifischen Kauf- oder Anlage-Empfehlungen dar. Die Moderatoren und der Verlag haften nicht für etwaige Verluste, die aufgrund der Umsetzung der Gedanken oder Ideen entstehen. Hörtipps: Für alle, die noch mehr wissen wollen: Holger Zschäpitz können Sie jede Woche im Finanz- und Wirtschaftspodcast "Deffner&Zschäpitz" hören. Außerdem bei WELT: Im werktäglichen Podcast „Das bringt der Tag“ geben wir Ihnen im Gespräch mit WELT-Experten die wichtigsten Hintergrundinformationen zu einem politischen Top-Thema des Tages. +++ Werbung +++ Du möchtest mehr über unsere Werbepartner erfahren? [**Hier findest du alle Infos & Rabatte!**](https://linktr.ee/alles_auf_aktien) Impressum: https://www.welt.de/services/article7893735/Impressum.html Datenschutz: https://www.welt.de/services/article157550705/Datenschutzerklaerung-WELT-DIGITAL.html

Kowabana: 'True' Japanese scary stories from around the internet

Episode Notes Join our Patreon for early access and bonus episodes and help support the show! Get exclusive Japanese horror merchandise and join the Discord! As we continue our ghostly tour of Japan, this week we're heading to Kansai in the southern-central region of Honshu. Uncover six terrifying tales from Japan's ancient capital. BGM thanks to Myuuji, Kevin MacLeod and CO.AG. Sound effects thanks to Free Sound and freeSFX. Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License Support Kowabana: 'True' Japanese scary stories from around the internet by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/kowabana

Rebuild
395: Bruno Mars Fancam (kansai_takako)

Rebuild

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 11, 2024 81:37


閑歳孝子さんをゲストに迎えて、XG, No No Girls, 藤井風、ギグエコノミーなどについて話しました。 Show Notes XG - SHOOTING STAR (Official Music Video) XG - WINTER WITHOUT YOU / THE FIRST TAKE XG - IYKYK (Official Music Video) XG Live Photos XG - New Dance JURIA Fancam 4K (2024/10/9 San Francisco) ROSÉ & Bruno Mars - APT. (Official Music Video) No No Girls Episode Rebuild: 312: Face in the Box (kansai_takako) Fujii Kaze 藤井 風 drops his keyboard and doesn't miss a beat! Fujii Kaze: Tiny Desk Concerts JAPAN 2024(令和6)年能登半島地震 ボランティア Tesla Cybercab announced: Elon Musk's robotaxi is finally here イーロン・マスク | Audible.co.jp [1話]サンキューピッチ - 住吉九 | 少年ジャンプ+

The Unfinished Print
Mike Lyon : Printmaker - Layers of Meaning

The Unfinished Print

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 22, 2024 69:50


Mokuhanga can be approached in many ways. For some, a hands-on approach is the most appealing, as it places full responsibility on the artist to carefully craft each step—designing, carving by hand, and printing—to achieve the best possible result. However, other mokuhanga artists take a more experimental route, where the possibilities are limitless, and innovation leads to unique outcomes. On this episode of The Unfinished Print, I speak with printmaker Mike Lyon, who has been creating mokuhanga for nearly 30 years. We delve into his philosophy on mokuhanga, his innovative use of a CNC machine in printmaking, and his inventive spirit. We also explore his own mokuhanga prints and the Lyon Collection of Japanese woodblock prints.  This interview was conducted while Mike was at the Mokuhanga Project Space in Walla Walla, Washington, and he reflects on his real time experiences during the interview. One other note; there is reference to an accident Mike had as a young man regarding his fingers. Listeners be warned.   Please follow The Unfinished Print and my own mokuhanga work on Instagram @andrezadoroznyprints or email me at theunfinishedprint@gmail.com  Notes: may contain a hyperlink. Simply click on the highlighted word or phrase. Artists works follow after the note if available. Pieces are mokuhanga unless otherwise noted. Dimensions are given if known. Print publishers are given if known. Mike Lyon - website Shotokan Karate - is a traditional Japanese martial art that emphasizes powerful, linear movements, strong stances, and precise techniques. Developed by Gichin Funakoshi (1868-1957) in the early 20th century, Shotokan blends self-defense, physical fitness, and mental discipline. It is characterized by its deep stances, focus on kata (pre-arranged forms), kihon (basic techniques), and kumite (sparring). Practitioners strive for mastery of body and mind, aiming to improve both physical strength and inner calm through rigorous practice. Shotokan is one of the most widely practiced karate styles worldwide. Zen Buddhism - is a school of Mahāyāna Buddhism that emphasizes direct experience, meditation (zazen), and mindfulness as paths to enlightenment. Originating in China as Chan Buddhism and later flourishing in Japan, Zen focuses on achieving insight into the nature of existence through meditation rather than reliance on scriptures or ritual. Central to Zen practice is the concept of "no-mind" (mushin), which seeks to quiet the mind and transcend dualistic thinking. Through sitting meditation, koans (paradoxical questions), and the guidance of a teacher, Zen practitioners aim to awaken to their true nature and the interconnectedness of all things. Hiroki Morinoue - is a mokuhanga printmaker and artist living in Holualoa, Big Island, Hawai'i. He is a co-founding member of the Holualoa Foundation For Arts & Culture, the establishment of the Donkey Mill Art Center and Studio 7 Fine Arts. Hiroki's interview with The Unfinished Print can be found, here.  Kitchen Fosit (2012)  Gotō Hidehiko (b.1953) - is a mokuhanga printmaker and tool maker based in Japan. He makes and teaches seminars about the construction of the mokuhanga tool, the baren.  From The Window (2017) 15" x 12" Anderson Ranch Arts Center - since the 1960s, Anderson Ranch Arts Center, located in Colorado, has been a beacon for the arts in the United States. The Ranch offers master classes, workshops, artist-in-residence programs, and more. For additional information, please click here. registration - there are several registration methods in mokuhanga. The traditional method is called the kentō registration, where you carve two notches, straight another an "L." There is also a "floating kentō," which is where the notches are cut in a piece of "L" shaped wood and not on the wood where you are cutting your image, hence "floating." Lastly, there are removable "pins," such as ones made by Ternes Burton.  The Fisherman and His Wife (1996) 15" x 10" International Mokuhanga Conference - is a bi-yearly conference dedicated to mokuhanga which started in 2011 by the International Mokuhanga Association. Each conference is themed. The latest conference was in 2021, delayed a year because of the pandemic. More information can be found, here. Prussian Blue - is a dark blue pigment, which has been used by painters, and mokuhanga printmakers. The pigment has been used in Europe since the 18th Century, and in Japan since around 1820, having been imported by Europeans into Japan. More information about Prussian Blue can be found in my interview with Professor Henry Smith, here.  reduction printmaking - is a process in printmaking where the printmaker cuts away on a piece of wood, or linoleum. After every carving, the printmaker makes an impression with pigments, beginning with lighter colours, gradually using darker colours. William H. Mays has a fine description of reduction on his website, here.  CNC Machine - A CNC (Computer Numerical Control) router is a machine used to cut, carve, or engrave materials like wood, plastic, metal, and foam with high precision, guided by a computer program. The router is controlled by pre-programmed software that dictates the movement of the cutting tool along multiple axes (typically three to five), allowing for complex shapes and designs to be created with great accuracy. CNC routers are commonly used in manufacturing, woodworking, sign-making, and prototyping because they can produce detailed and repetitive cuts that would be difficult to achieve by hand. Friends of Baren Forum - is a Facebook group dedicated to those interested in mokuhanga and woodblock printing in general. it can be found, here.  David Bull - is a Canadian woodblock printmaker, and educator who lives and works in Japan. His love of mokuhanga has almost singlehandedly promoted the art form around the world. His company, Mokuhankan, has a brick and mortar store in Asakusa, Tōkyō, and online, here.  River In Spring (2009)  shihan - is a title in Japanese martial arts, often translated as "master instructor." It is an honorific title given to highly skilled and experienced practitioners who have demonstrated knowledge, expertise, and commitment to a particular martial art over many years. A shihan is not only a technical expert but also a role model and leader, responsible for preserving and passing on the traditions and philosophies of the martial art to future generations. The title is typically granted in arts such as karate, aikido, judo, and kendo, and it is often reserved for senior instructors with a rank of 5th dan or higher. aizuri-e - (藍摺絵) are woodblock prints made entirely with shades of blue. This style gained popularity during the Edo Period.  yakusha-e - (役者絵) is the Japanese term for actor prints in mokuhanga.  bijin-ga - (美人画) is the Japanese term for beautiful women in mokuhanga.  Ezoshi - is a mokuhanga focused art gallery and store located in Kyoto, Japan. It was established in 1978. More info, here.  Tōshūsai Sharaku (dates unknown) - was a Japanese ukiyo-e printmaker active during the late Edo period, primarily from 1794 to 1795. He is known for his portraits of kabuki actors, capturing their dramatic expressions and movements with remarkable realism and emotional depth. Sharaku emphasized individuality and personality in his subjects, using bold colors and strong contrasts to create a distinct style. Despite his brief career, lasting only about ten months, his innovative approach had a lasting impact on the ukiyo-e tradition, making him one of the most significant printmakers of the Edo period. The true identity of Sharaku and the reasons for his sudden disappearance from the art scene are still unknown. Otani Oniji III as Edobei (1794) 14 15/16" × 9 7/8" ōkubi-e (大首絵) -  are woodblock prints of close-up human heads, which came into prominence in the late 19th Century. For me, the best mokuhanga designer of okubi-e is Toyohara Kunichika (1835-1900). His okubi-e of kabuki actors is unparalleled, showing the actors in various positions with intricate backgrounds and poses. Kamigata - is a region of Japan which refers to the area encompassing the cities of Kyoto and Osaka, located in the Kansai region. During the Edo period (1603–1868), Kamigata became a significant cultural and artistic center, known for its contributions to theater, literature, and the arts, particularly ukiyo-e  mokuhanga. The term "Kamigata," meaning "upper region," reflects its geographical position relative to Edo (modern Tōkyō), which was considered the "lower region."  Photoshop - is a powerful graphics editing software developed by Adobe Systems, widely used for image manipulation, photo editing, and digital art creation. It offers a variety of tools and features for tasks such as retouching images, creating graphics, applying effects, and designing layouts, making it an essential tool for photographers, graphic designers, and artists. Benjamin Selby - is an artist who works in mokuhanga, as well as serigraphy and installations. More information about Benjamin's work can be found, here. His interview with The Unfinished Print can be found, here.  Crushed (2024) Fudezaishiki - Hand Colored With Brush Mokuhanga 9" x 12" Mokuhanga Project Space - is a mokuhanga residency located in Walla Walla, Washington, USA. It was established in 2016 and is led by printmaker Keiko Hara. More info can be found, here.  coding - also known as programming, is the process of writing instructions for computers using programming languages. These instructions, or code, enable computers to perform specific tasks, solve problems, or automate processes. Coding involves creating algorithms, which are step-by-step procedures for carrying out a task, and translating these algorithms into a language that a computer can understand, such as Python, Java, C++, or JavaScript. Coding is essential in developing software applications, websites, and systems that power various technologies in everyday life, from mobile apps to complex databases and artificial intelligence systems. HP-25 - is a scientific calculator introduced by Hewlett-Packard in 1975. It is notable for being one of the first pocket-sized programmable calculators, featuring a unique Reverse Polish Notation (RPN) input system, which allows users to enter calculations in a more efficient manner than traditional algebraic notation. The HP-25 is equipped with a 49-step program memory, enabling users to create and store complex calculations. It has a 2-line display for showing both the program and the results, and it can perform a variety of functions, including trigonometric, logarithmic, and statistical calculations. The HP-25 is recognized for its durability, design, and the pioneering role it played in the evolution of personal computing and calculators. subroutine - also known as a function, method, or procedure, is a set of instructions designed to perform a specific task within a larger program. Subroutines allow programmers to break down complex problems into smaller, manageable pieces, promoting code reusability and organization. When a subroutine is called, the program temporarily transfers control to that subroutine, executes its instructions, and then returns control to the main program or calling code, often providing a result or output. This modular approach makes it easier to debug, maintain, and understand code, as well as to share functionality across different parts of a program or between different programs. Echizen - is a region in Fukui Prefecture, Japan, known for its long history of papermaking. The area is home to many paper artisans. One notable figure is Iwano Ichibei. He is a Living National Treasure in papermaking and the ninth generation of his family still making paper today. More information can be found here.in English, and here in Japanese.  baren - is a mokuhanga tool that typically consists of a round, flat disk with a bamboo base, covered with a layer of cord or cloth, often wrapped in a spiral pattern made from various materials such as cotton or hemp. Additionally, there are baren made from ball bearings and other materials, including plastic and metal. Linda in Black (2019) 41" x 29.5" - for more information on how this print was made you can find that on Mike Lyon's website, here.  rectangular spirals -  are a pattern which Mike Lyon uses a lot in his mokuhanga. Here is a posting on Mike's website in which Mike discusses his ideas on these spirals and how he uses them through coding. It can be found, here.  Guerra & Paint Pigment Corp. - is a brick and mortar store located in Brooklyn, New York that sells artists pigments. More info, here.  CMYK colour model - stands for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow and Key which are the colours used in the printing process of whichever work you are making. More info, here.  rasters - or raster graphics, are a type of digital image composed of a grid of individual pixels, each containing colour information. This pixel-based format is commonly used in digital photography, web graphics, and image editing, with resolution defined by the number of pixels in each dimension (width x height) and measured in dots per inch (DPI) or pixels per inch (PPI). While raster images can capture detailed and complex visuals, such as photographs, they can lose quality and become pixelated when enlarged, as the individual pixels become more visible. Common raster file formats include JPEG, PNG, GIF, and BMP. Unlike vector graphics, which use mathematical equations to represent images and can be scaled infinitely without loss of quality, rasters are less suitable for images requiring resizing or scaling. Shotbot code - typically refers to programming or scripting used to automate tasks in photography, particularly in photo booths or photography studios. It may involve controlling camera settings, managing image capture, and organizing files, allowing photographers to streamline their workflows and enhance productivity. Often associated with the ShotBot app, this code enables remote triggering of cameras, capturing images at set intervals, and integrating with other software for efficient image management. By utilizing Shotbot code, photographers can achieve consistent results and improve the overall efficiency of their photography projects. Madz - Portrait of the artist Madeline Cass. 31"x32" for more information regarding the process of how this print was made can be found on Mike Lyon's website, here.  Post Digital Printmaking - is printmaking using Computer Numeric Control (CNC) devices, including laser cutters and CNC routers, that are used for matrix production in lithography, intaglio, and relief printing. closed-loop controller -is a type of control system that continuously monitors and adjusts its output based on feedback from the system it is controlling. In this system, the controller receives information about the current state or output and compares it to a desired setpoint or target value. This feedback allows the controller to make real-time adjustments to the input or control signal to minimize the difference between the actual output and the desired output, enhancing accuracy and stability. Closed-loop controllers are commonly used in applications such as industrial automation, robotics, temperature control, and motor speed regulation, and they are contrasted with open-loop controllers, which do not utilize feedback and rely solely on predefined input commands. The feedback mechanism in closed-loop systems improves performance, allowing for better handling of disturbances and changes in system dynamics. MDF - or Medium-Density Fiberboard, is an engineered wood product made from wood fibres, wax, and resin that are compressed under high pressure and temperature. It is known for its smooth surface, uniform density, and versatility, making it a popular choice for furniture, cabinetry, moldings, and decorative applications. MDF can be easily cut, shaped, and painted, allowing for intricate designs and finishes. Unlike solid wood, MDF does not have knots or grain patterns, providing a consistent appearance. It is often used as a cost-effective alternative to solid wood and plywood, although it can be more susceptible to moisture damage and may require sealing for certain applications. Foundry Vineyards - based in Walla Walla, Washington is a vineyard and art space. It has been hosting artists from all types of media such as painting and printmaking since 2010. It has exhibited The Mokuhanga Project Space, printmaker Mike Lyon,  and the International Mokuhanga Print Exhibit. More info about this space and the good it does for the art community at large can be found, here.  The Wichita Art Museum - located in Wichita, Kansas, is the largest art museum in the state. Established in 1935, it features a diverse collection of American art, with a particular focus on works from the 19th and 20th centuries. The museum's permanent collection includes paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, highlighting notable artists such as Georgia O'Keeffe, Edward Hopper, and John Steuart Curry. In addition to its collections, the museum offers rotating exhibitions, educational programs, and community events that engage the public and promote an appreciation for the visual arts. The museum's architecture, designed by the renowned architect Edward Durrell Stone. More info can be found, here.  The International Block Print Renaissance: Then & Now - was a woodblock exhibition held at the Wichita Art Museum from February 26 - August 7, 2022. It was an exhibition which exhibited prints from around the world as well as printmakers from Wichita, Kansas, USA. It described various print making techniques from Japan, Western and Eastern Europe, as well as the United States.  Secret Garden [Clover] (2017) 36" x 36", a video on how Mike Lyon printed this particular print can be found on YouTube, here.   © Popular Wheat Productions opening and closing credit -There Is No Greater Love by Chet Baker (1928-1988) from the album City Lights (2024) UMG Records.  logo designed and produced by Douglas Batchelor and André Zadorozny  Disclaimer: Please do not reproduce or use anything from this podcast without shooting me an email and getting my express written or verbal consent. I'm friendly :)  Слава Українi If you find any issue with something in the show notes please let me know. ***The opinions expressed by guests in The Unfinished Print podcast are not necessarily those of André Zadorozny and of Popular Wheat Productions.***    

Life Examined
Midweek Reset: Ikigai

Life Examined

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 14, 2024 4:00


This week, Iza Kavedžija, a cultural anthropologist who lived in the Kansai region of Japan, while researching the older members of Japanese society, talks about how Japanese culture values the modest pursuit - a concept called  ikigai- small actions or interests, like making tea, that if done masterfully and with full attention provide fulfillment and meaning in life.